By Thapelo Molefe
A youth-owned wellness centre at Addo Elephant National Park in the Eastern Cape has created 16 permanent jobs, following financial support from the Department of Tourism and the National Empowerment Fund (NEF).
The Epitome Spa & Wellness Centre, founded by young entrepreneur Lucia Ratshivhadelo, has created 36 employment opportunities, including 20 temporary construction jobs and 16 permanent positions in its operations.
The project received funding through a partnership between the department’s Tourism Transformation Fund (TTF) and the NEF, enabling construction to be completed ahead of the summer tourism season.
Deputy Minister of Tourism Maggie Sotyu said the investment demonstrated how supporting young black women entrepreneurs could expand economic opportunities and create jobs in the tourism sector.
“Behind every tourism business are people whose lives can change through access to work. The Epitome Spa & Wellness Centre demonstrates how supporting black women and young entrepreneurs can open doors to employment while creating new experiences for visitors,” Sotyu said.
She said the partnership with the NEF was aimed at ensuring that economic transformation translated into meaningful opportunities for South Africans to own businesses, develop skills and benefit from the tourism economy.
The development comes as South Africa’s tourism sector continues to record growth, with approximately 7.5 million international tourists visiting the country between January and August this year.
NEF chief executive officer Mziwabantu Dayimani said access to funding remained a major barrier for skilled individuals seeking to establish and own businesses.
“Ms Ratshivhadelo’s journey shows what becomes possible when that barrier is addressed. She has built an enterprise around her professional skills, creating a commercial opportunity that extends beyond her individual success,” Dayimani said.
He said development finance should go beyond funding transactions and focus on building sustainable businesses and supporting livelihoods.
Ratshivhadelo, who holds a Bachelor of Technology (BTech) qualification in Pharmaceutical Science, said her academic background and practical experience had helped her establish a wellness business that combines professional treatments with a focus on guest experience.
“My interest has always extended beyond beauty to understanding the science behind effective treatments. Education and practical experience gave me the foundation to pursue my dream of establishing a business that combines professional wellness services with an exceptional guest experience,” she said.
She said creating employment and providing opportunities for workers to develop their skills were among the most meaningful aspects of establishing the business.
“I also hope my journey encourages other young women to believe in their abilities and pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions,” Ratshivhadelo said.
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