Lungile “Lungi” Maphumulo’s journey to becoming a value shareholder at Brahman Hills, an award-winning property in the Kwa-Zulu Natal Midlands, is a testament to hard work, dedication and a genuine passion for hospitality.
With over a decade of experience, Lungi has demonstrated that success comes from consistently going the extra mile for her team, guests and the business she now proudly calls her own.
Raised in Lamontville, South of Durban, Lungi grew up in a family that placed a strong emphasis on education and discipline.
“My mum worked as an operational manager in trauma theatre, and my stepdad was a chief medical officer in Paediatrics,” she said. “They encouraged us to pursue independent career paths and always emphasised a strong work ethic. The most important lessons I learnt were through observation—those of love, finances, and charity.” Faith also played a crucial role in shaping Lungi’s character, as her family attended church every Sunday, instilling in her the importance of belief.
Although she holds a diploma in a hospitality-related field from the Durban University of Technology, Lungi initially did not envision herself in this industry. However, her first job after graduation in 2011 as a restaurant server at the five-star Fairmont Zimbali Hotel in Ballito changed her perspective.
Despite her brief four-month tenure, Lungi was inspired by the high service standards and the passionate training manager who ignited her love for training and development. “She inspired me to do everything with passion. That’s also when I fell in love with the idea of helping others grow,” she added.
Lungi’s hospitality journey continued at Hampshire Hotel in Ballito, where she received support and mentorship from the assistant general manager, who recognised her potential despite her inexperience. The owner of Ilawu Hospitality Group, who remains her mentor to this day, instilled in her the importance of taking ownership and her unwavering belief in Lungi’s abilities left a lasting impact.
In 2020, Lungile joined Brahman Hills, initially applying for a Wedding Coordinator position. However, her experience led her to the role of conference and events coordinator instead. “I planned most of our family gatherings, so it wasn’t a surprise that I excelled in event planning later on,” said Lungi.
In 2023, her hard work was rewarded with a promotion to head of coordination, and in 2024, she was named head of weddings and events and became a Value Shareholder.
“In our business, we are driven by purpose and guided by ambitious goals, which is why we don’t settle for mediocrity. We seek individuals willing to push themselves beyond their perceived limits, go the extra mile, and give their absolute best,” said Brahman Hills director Onwaba Gonyora.
“Lungi has risen to the challenge time and again. She is a courageous leader and a testament to what it means to align purpose with greatness. We are honoured to welcome her to our executive leadership team.”
Reflecting on changes in the wedding and hospitality industry, Lungi says there is a greater emphasis on personalised experiences compared to 13 years ago. When asked about her favourite aspect of Brahman Hills, she immediately says the company’s family-oriented culture. “It’s less corporate and more about supporting each other. We also embrace failure here, which I think is crucial for growth.”
She believes it’s important to prioritise family time and self-care, crediting her son’s morning kisses and coffee for jump-starting her day. Her love of cooking is her way of unwinding and she also enjoys travelling, exploring new cultures, and spending time in nature.
Her advice for aspiring leaders in the hospitality industry? “Your team will be inspired by your actions. Show them what great leadership looks like, and don’t be afraid to hire people as talented as you are – it only makes the team stronger,” she concluded.
