One of the better known faces at Tanda Tula Safari Camp is that of Smiling Ubisi, the friendly face you will usually find greeting you back to camp, or at the bar making mean cocktails or at bush breakfast serving the best home brewed coffees this side of the Kruger Park.
Smiling has been part of the Tanda Tula family since 1995, almost 30 years of having this kind, warm hearted gentleman as a recognisable character in and around camp. “I have worked for four different Tanda Tula’s – first there were giraffe, then a clay pot, then three tents and now a zigzog thing!” This is Smiling’s charming and honest interpretation of the transition of our logo, which in reality is the evolution of our brand and a reflection of the journey we have been on so far.
Smiling’s current role is a Lodge anchor which means he moves between guests, the kitchen and management. He greets our guests on arrival, gives them the safari lowdown, introduces them to their beautiful suites and then is there for anything anyone may need. Along with this it is Smiling’s duty to make sure all service aspects are delivered on time in the correct manner.
Although the Tanda Tula infrastructure has changed over the years Smiling say what has remained the same for him is the people he works with, the management and leaders remain the same. However, now a days he does notice changes with our guests: “They seem to want new things at the bar, no longer just beers and Gins but rather fancy cocktails. So I am learning a lot. Tanda Tula is stepping up and so am I!”
“I love working here because now I have become well known through the work I do for my community, not just in South Africa, but all across the world people know me and know what I do for my community.” Smiling and his brother, Harry, who also is with us at Tanda Tula, started and run an incredible NGO called Kunavulela in their local village. Though this program they help members of their community who have disabilities, as well as the youth wanted to play soccer. “It is important for me to help my community because of where I came from. I had to drop out of school when I was 13 because my mum was sick and I needed to provide food for my family. I remember it was cold and I had no shoes and needed to find food. This feeling of struggle is still fresh in my memory and so I want to help anyone else who may be in a similar situation.”
This empathetic approach to others is very typical of how Smiling is towards all our guests, so often you will find him sitting and chatting or lending an ear, listening to the stories of those who come on safari with us. The relationship between Smiling and Tanda Tula is one of a mutual love and deep respect and perhaps that is why it has been so long lasting.
So, when you next visit us make sure to find a moment of two to spend with this inspiring man and ask about his story and what holds importance for him….it will be well worth it.
