Brahman Hills has been named the winner of the prestigious Renewable Efficiency – Green Initiatives category at the 2025 KwaZulu-Natal Top Business Awards, held on July 17, 2025. This accolade recognises businesses that are leading the way in renewable energy, sustainability and environmental impact.
Nestled in the heart of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, Brahman Hills has quietly become one of South Africa’s most compelling case studies in sustainable luxury.
From operating 85% off-grid to upcycling waste into art and producing honey from on-site beehives, the property has redefined what it means to be both green and guest-centric.
“This award is a tribute to our team and our long-term vision and purpose,” said executive director of Brahman Hills, Onwaba Gonyora. “We didn’t pursue sustainability because it was trendy. We chose it because it’s necessary. Because our environment matters. Because our people matter. And because we believe that business should be a force for good.”
The transformation of Brahman Hills began in 2014 when entrepreneur Iain Buchan acquired the Windmills property and later rebranded it.
Since then, what was once a modest hospitality venue has evolved into a destination defined by award-winning gardens, regenerative design and community-powered impact. Today, Brahman Hills boasts:
- 30 hotel rooms and 12 five-star villas, many with private jacuzzis overlooking indigenous landscapes;
- A multi-award-winning spa featuring treatments rooted in nature and luxury;
- An internationally-acclaimed Royal Horticultural Society Partner Garden, one of only two in South Africa, built during COVID-19 by Brahman Hills staff (from chefs to front-of-house);
- Locally crafted beehives that produce over 140 litres of raw honey annually;
- Rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems that supply fountains, irrigation, and lake rehabilitation;
- A waste strategy that includes zero single-use plastics, on-site composting, and glass bottle refills;
- Over 1,000 trees planted in the last year, contributing to carbon capture and biodiversity.
But the numbers only tell part of the story. “We believe sustainability is lived through people, not a concept or policy,” explained Gonyora. “Our gardens were built by our people. Our art installations are made by local crafters using recycled materials. Our solar panels aren’t just infrastructure; they’re a commitment to a cleaner, smarter future. Each initiative reflects a culture of care.”
That culture is embedded across the whole business. Many of Brahman Hills’ leaders are shareholders, and the organisation prioritises growing talent from within.
The current head of gardens began as a casual worker. Staff are trained in regenerative planting, sustainable cooking and ethical hospitality practices. “It’s this approach that makes sustainability feel authentic rather than imposed,” she noted. “Every detail reflects our people’s creativity and commitment.”
Brahman Hills has also proven that sustainability isn’t just ethical, it’s economically viable. All green infrastructure investments have been self-funded through reinvested profits. “We’ve shown that profitability and purpose don’t have to compete,” said Gonyora.
“In fact, they can power each other.” This economic viability enables the business to extend its impact beyond the property’s borders, partnering with The Unlimited Child to give back, supporting 33 local crèches and encouraging staff to volunteer.
The KZN Top Business Awards celebrate businesses that demonstrate leadership, innovation and impact across the province. Brahman Hills’ recognition in the Renewable Efficiency category places it firmly on the map as a national benchmark for eco-conscious hospitality.
And the journey is just getting started.
“This isn’t the finish line, it’s motivation to keep going, to keep reimagining how tourism, nature, people, and business can thrive together. We’re honoured. And we’re ready for what’s next,” concluded Gonyora
