Leading with Heart: Yolandi Hendricks at the Graham Hotel
Saturday, 9th August 2025
In the heart of Makhanda, the Graham Hotel stands as both a hub for travellers and a stage for the town’s heritage. Behind its welcoming doors, manager Yolandi Hendricks leads with passion, professionalism, and purpose.
“I love making people feel valued, comfortable, and cared for,” she says. “We are ambassadors of our town’s culture and heritage.”
Her journey hasn’t been without challenges. In a male-dominated industry, Yolandi proved her leadership by delivering results, fostering respect, and mentoring other women.
She believes every guest interaction shapes Makhanda’s image beyond its borders, and her team works tirelessly to ensure each stay is memorable.
To young women, she offers this:
“Don’t doubt your place in this world. Start where you are, learn what you can, and grow beyond your roots. Your voice and strength are needed.”
At the Graham Hotel, guests don’t just find a room — they find a piece of Makhanda’s story.
Learn more about Yolandi and her passion for the hospitality sector:
1. Please can you share some of the key experiences or turning points in your personal or professional life that led you to this field?
I have always been passionate about working with people and creating value in ways that drive financial growth. The opportunity to build meaningful relationships while contributing to a business’s bottom line is what inspires and motivates me.
2. What aspects of the work keep you motivated or inspired to stay in this space?
What keeps me motivated in hospitality is the ability to make people feel valued, comfortable, and cared for. Whether it’s making a great first impression, hosting a special event, or ensuring a good night’s rest, I love being part of the experience that turns a simple stay into a lasting memory. I also thrive on the fast-paced nature of the industry, the chance to meet people from all walks of life, and the endless opportunities to grow—both personally and professionally. There is never a dull moment, and that energy fuels my passion for this work.
3. How does your work contribute to the tourism, culture, or heritage of Makhanda and the rest of the Makana region?
My work plays a vital role in supporting Makhanda’s tourism, culture, and heritage by creating welcoming, high-quality experiences for visitors from across the country and beyond. Every guest we host, every local recommendation we share, and every smooth check-in contributes to the impression visitors take away—an impression that shapes how they speak about Makhanda to others.
4. What challenges have you faced as a woman in your field, and how have you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges I have faced as a woman in hospitality is proving my leadership capabilities. I have overcome this by focusing on excellence—delivering consistent results, leading by example, and building strong relationships with both guests and staff. I have also leaned into mentorship, supporting other women in the industry and fostering a culture of respect and professionalism. I believe it is important to show that being firm, fair, and empathetic are all signs of strong leadership—not weaknesses.
5. What message would you like to share with the next generation of women and girls in the Makana region and beyond?
I have learned that your impact doesn’t depend on where you start—it depends on how you carry yourself, how you treat people, and how hard you are willing to work. Hospitality has taught me the power of professionalism and passion. Every day, I meet people from all walks of life, and I have come to understand that our role extends far beyond service. We are the face of our town, ambassadors of our culture, and we hold the power to make guests feel at home while showcasing the richness of Makhanda’s heritage.
To the next generation: Never doubt your place in this world. You are capable of leading, building, and changing lives—including your own. Start where you are. Learn what you can. Speak up. Stay grounded in your roots, but don’t be afraid to grow beyond them. You have something this country needs—your voice, your heart, and your strength.
Book your next stay at the Graham Hotel here.
