The Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency (ECPTA) honoured remarkable women who own and manage homestays across the province during the inaugural Homestay Awards ceremony at Mngazana River Lodge in Port St. Johns on 16 September 2024.
According to ECPTA’s Destination Development Supervisor, Fezeka Mlungu, the awards aimed to recognise and inspire these women to remain champions of authentic cultural experiences, offering visitors unique insights into the rich Xhosa heritage.
“Their efforts do not only enrich the diversity of our tourism landscape but also contribute and drive economic growth through job creation and fostering entrepreneurship within their communities,” said Mlungu.
Homestay of the Year winner, Ncumisa Sokepu, from Poenskop Homestay in the Port St. Johns Municipality, shared her thoughts on what made her homestay stand out.
“I believe it’s because when visitors arrived at my homestay, they experience authenticity. They were always eager to learn about our culture and the natural environment. I make sure they are entertained by traditional dancers and enjoy fresh African cuisine, including seafood sourced from local fishermen. They also love buying fresh fruit from the community and handmade crafts from local artisans. These experiences leave them satisfied, and they keep coming back.”
“To succeed in the homestay business, you have to genuinely enjoy and love what you do. You must value cleanliness, appreciate beauty, and work hard while loving people,” Sokepu said.
Other award winners included Amanda’s Homestay – Luleka Miti from Raymond Mhlaba Municipality, Faith’s Homestay – Faith Ngadi from Makana Local Municipality, Erra Village – Ntombekhaya Booi from Umzimvubu Local Municipality, Ntile Homestay – Nogcinile Ntile from Ingquza Hill, and Sigidi Homestay – Zanele Mbuthuma from Winnie Madikizela Mandela Municipality.
