As August arrives in South Africa, the subtle transformation of the bushveld reflects the spirit of the month. It is a time of warmth rising from winter, of reflection and celebration, and of honouring the roots that shape who we are.

At Jabulani, August is deeply meaningful. It is a moment to recognise the richness of our languages and culture, the power of women in leadership, and the enduring memory of elephants, all of which are part of our story. It’s a story held together by heritage, heart and purpose.

A Lodge Rooted in Language and Culture

Jabulani stands proudly as the only Afrikaans-speaking member of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux family. Afrikaans is more than just a means of communication here, it is a symbol of belonging. It echoes through the elephant homestead, in laughter shared over fireside dinners and in the traditions passed down across generations.

This year marks 100 years since Afrikaans was recognised as an official language in South Africa. A century later, its rhythms still run through the soul of this land, a reminder of the past and a guide for the future.

For us, Afrikaans reflects the foundation of Jabulani, a family legacy that has grown into a sanctuary for both people and elephants, a place of deep connection to the land and to one another.

Honouring Women Who Lead With Heart

August is also Women’s Month, a powerful time to reflect on the role of women in shaping our country, our industries, and our futures. At Jabulani, this celebration is especially close to home. As a proudly female-owned and female-led lodge, Women’s Month is not simply a national observance, it is a lived experience.

This year, we celebrate two extraordinary women who have helped redefine leadership in hospitality and conservation: Adine Roode, owner of Jabulani and founder of HERD (Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development), and Aggie Maseko Banda, owner of Royal Chundu in Zambia.

Both women have been honoured by Relais & Châteaux as Women of the Year, Adine in 2020, and Aggie in 2023, for their trailblazing contributions to conservation and community-driven hospitality.

Reflecting on her recognition, Adine shared:

Aggie, whose passion has transformed Royal Chundu into a leading example of locally rooted luxury, shared her thoughts on the award:

The Spirit to Rise

In South Africa, Women’s Day is far more than a date on the calendar. It commemorates the historic 1956 march of over 20,000 women to the Union Buildings in Pretoria, united in protest against unjust laws. But it also speaks to something more timeless, the strength and courage of South African women to rise above adversity.

Women across the country continue to face immense challenges, from economic hardship and gender-based violence to limited access to opportunities. Yet, again and again, they rise. With resilience, with compassion and with unyielding hope.

At Jabulani, we are constantly inspired by the women in our team and community who carry this spirit with them daily, building, nurturing, leading and protecting, both quietly and boldly. Their strength is not only found in overcoming struggle, but in lifting others with them.

Creating a Legacy for the Future

The work of Adine and Aggie extends beyond the lodges they lead. It is about creating opportunities, uplifting communities and setting examples for future generations of women. At Jabulani, this spirit of mentorship, care and courage is felt in every element of our lodge, from our commitment to conservation to the way we host guests with soulful hospitality.

Like the elephants who roam these lands, whose memories span lifetimes, we carry forward a story that blends strength and softness, tradition and transformation.

This Women’s Month, we honour the voices that have shaped our home, the women who inspire us daily, and the language and land that have given rise to it all.