Masi Nsedani

Lydia describes her business in her own words:

“I work on De Hoop Nature Reserve, three hours from Cape Town.  The turnoff at Bredasdorp is about 5kms from the actual reserve.  From Swellendam it is also about 5km.  There is a fynbos reserve, but with game like eland, bontebok, mountain zebra and caracal.  A pleasant sighting will be of the Vultures and don’t forget about the whales.  There are numerous walking and mountain biking trails.  It is also ideal for hikers to walk along the coastline as we have the most beautiful beaches.

I clean three equipped houses each with two bedrooms, and a bathroom with shower.  We also ensure that the houses are supplied with clean bedding and towels.   Some of the other houses are also fully equipped, but you will need to bring your own bedding.  I also clean the reserve offices with their ablution facilities, as well as the 10 camping sites with their ablution blocks and washing facilities.  Besides all the rondavels and cottages on the reserve, we also clean the larger venues such as the meeting hall and the large complex at Koppe Alleen that has 32 beds.  We also do laundry for all the accommodation facilities and make sure that bedding and towels are provided. 
I started this business because CapeNature was restructured and I was offered a contract.   I accepted the contract, as it included a washing machine and transport.  We have drawn up a business plan.  I underwent a course in business.  They offered me a three-month contract and renewed it for frou months.  They are going to open the tender up to the public, but I am positive that I am going to get it, because I am determined to do even more than what I am already doing.  I have a qualification in bookkeeping and they have helped me register as a contractor, so my business is really afloat!

I am a responsible person and have good relationship skills with people, encouraging and inspiring them to always do their work well.  I am honest and hardworking, and will make sure that we go for more training when possible.   I have good support from the CapeNature.”