New Wellness Centre at Addo Elephant National Park Creates Jobs and Advances Tourism Transformation
Addo, The Gulf Observer: The Department of Tourism and the National Empowerment Fund (NEF) have supported the establishment of a new wellness facility at Addo Elephant National Park in the Eastern Cape. The initiative is part of the South African government’s commitment to driving economic transformation and expanding inclusion in key sectors.
The Epitome Spa & Wellness Centre has created sustainable employment opportunities for local communities while promoting tourism to the national park.
A Black Woman-Owned Business at Addo Elephant National Park
The facility was founded by Lucia Ratshivhadelo, an industry specialist who turned her university qualifications into a commercial enterprise within one of the country’s flagship conservation areas.
The spa is wholly owned and run by Ratshivhadelo as a young black woman entrepreneur. It has created 36 jobs in total: 20 short-term construction positions and 16 permanent operational roles.
A joint initiative between the NEF and the Department of Tourism’s Tourism Transformation Fund (TTF) provided financial support for the project, allowing construction to be completed ahead of the summer season.
Tourism Growth Must Benefit South Africans, Says Deputy Minister
Deputy Minister of Tourism Maggie Sotyu emphasised that continued tourism growth must translate into opportunities for South Africans. The sector has grown steadily this year, with some 7.5 million international tourists visiting the country between January and August.
“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.
“Our partnership with the NEF is about ensuring that transformation delivers meaningful results. We want to see more South Africans owning businesses, developing their skills and benefiting from the opportunities within the tourism economy,” she added.
Access to Capital Turns Expertise Into Ownership
NEF Chief Executive Officer Mziwabantu Dayimani said strategic funding helps turn technical skills into business ownership.
“South Africa has talented and capable people with the knowledge to build successful businesses. But having expertise and entrepreneurial ambition does not always translate into ownership, particularly when access to capital remains a barrier,” he said.
“Ms Ratshivhadelo’s journey shows what becomes possible when that barrier is addressed. Development finance must achieve more than funding transactions. Its value lies in enabling sustainable enterprises and supporting livelihoods,” Dayimani noted.
Founder Hopes to Inspire Young Women Entrepreneurs
Ratshivhadelo, who holds a B.Tech in Pharmaceutical Science, reflected on her journey to owning a wellness business.
“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.
“Seeing The Epitome Spa & Wellness Centre become a reality is deeply meaningful, particularly because it has created employment opportunities for others. I also hope my journey encourages other young women to believe in their abilities and pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions,” she added.
