Page 65 - KZN Top Business Woman 2025 - eBook

T husie Pather

Owner and Founder of Golf Course Boutique they come back not only a second time, but three or four “Marketing is very costly for a small business,” she
Guest House times. That tells me we are doing something right.” admits. “But we find creative ways to overcome these
challenges. Exceptional service is our biggest marketing
Such consistency has not gone unnoticed. Golf Course tool because word of mouth brings guests back and
husie Pather is the owner and founder of Boutique Guest House holds a four-star grading from attracts new ones.”
T Golf Course Boutique Guest House, she the Tourism Grading Council and has been recognised
as a benchmark property, even earning an invitation to Her resilience and adaptability have been key to
says with a smile that carries both pride
and gratitude. Situated in the tranquil suburb of Mount exhibit at the prestigious Travel Indaba for the past three navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship. “You
Edgecombe, the guest house is just a short walk from years. “That was such an honour,” Thusie reflects. “It really learn as you go,” she says with a quiet confidence. “I did
the Mount Edgecombe Country Club and driving range. validated the hard work we have put in.” not have a background in hospitality when I started, but I
With thirteen beautifully appointed bedrooms, the Further testament to her commitment is the guest believed in myself. You face challenges, overcome them,
guest house is a haven for both business and leisure house’s impressive online reputation. “On Booking.com, and you grow stronger through each experience.”
travellers.
we have maintained a 9.2 out of 10 rating for service To aspiring entrepreneurs, Thusie offers heartfelt advice.
Thusie’s journey into hospitality is deeply personal levels for the past three years,” she shares. “It means a “Start small, work hard, and never give up,” she says firmly.
and inspired by her love for people and travel. “I love lot because those scores come directly from guests’ “You do not need to have everything figured out at the
travelling, and I love staying in hotels and guest houses,” feedback.” beginning. When I started, I did not think I could run a
she explains. “I decided to open my own guest house In 2024, the guest house received the Durban Tourism guest house, but with time and effort, I learned. The most
because I love being around people. It felt like a natural Award for Service Excellence in the non-hotel category. rewarding part is seeing how far you have come.”
step for me.”
“That was one of our proudest moments,” she says Running a guest house, she adds, is not for the faint-
Growing up in a close-knit Indian household, Thusie warmly. “It reminded us that dedication and passion do hearted. “It is a 24/7 job. There is always something
learned the art of hospitality from her parents. “My get recognised.” happening, and you have to be available,” she admits.
parents were always very hospitable. We always had For Thusie, maintaining excellence requires constant “But despite the challenges, it is incredibly fulfilling.
relatives staying over, sharing meals, laughter, and stories. reflection and adaptation. “We look at every review, good You meet people from all walks of life, learn about their
That sense of warmth and togetherness inspired me to or bad,” she explains. “We take every comment seriously journeys, and share in their stories. Every day brings
create a space where guests could feel the same kind of and see it as an opportunity to improve. Training our staff something new.”
homeliness and happiness,” she recalls. regularly ensures we stay consistent and grow as a team.” Amid her busy schedule, Thusie remains mindful of

Today, that very ethos defines the atmosphere at Golf Her vision for the future is clear. “My dream is to build a balance. “I make time for my child and my spiritual
Course Boutique Guest House. From the moment guests strong brand and a reputation for exceptional service,” practices,” she shares. “Meditation and attending spiritual
arrive, they are welcomed not just into a property, but she says. “I want people to know they can always find a meetings help me stay centred. It reminds me to be
into a home. grateful and to approach my work with kindness and
place that feels like home when they come to Golf Course calm.”
Boutique Guest House. I also hope to expand and offer
BUILDING A BRAND
more services in the future.” Her story is one of determination, faith, and the enduring
Thusie’s focus on high service standards has become spirit of hospitality. From her humble beginnings rooted
the cornerstone of her success. “I am very hands-on in OVERCOMING CHALLENGES in family warmth to her growing recognition in the
my business to ensure the service levels are maintained,” Like many small business owners, Thusie faced significant tourism industry, Thusie embodies what it means to lead
she explains. “I also encourage my staff to uphold those challenges, particularly during the early days of her with heart.
same standards, and that’s why our guests return time venture. “I opened during the Covid period,” she recalls.
and time again.” As she looks toward the future, her ambitions remain
“It was a very uncertain time, and I had to adapt quickly. grounded in service and sincerity. “This journey is still
The guest house enjoys a loyal following of corporate There were so many changes, but I was determined to new,” she says thoughtfully. “The guest house is only four
and leisure clients. “Our guests always compliment us make it work.” years old, but I have big dreams. I want to keep growing,
on the cleanliness of the rooms and the friendliness of Operational costs, including rising utility bills and keep improving, and keep welcoming guests who feel at
the staff,” Thusie says proudly. “It is very rewarding when marketing expenses, continue to pose difficulties. home here. That is what true hospitality is all about.”

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