Meet Evanz Marope, one of our beloved team at Morukuru Family Madikwe. Evanz first got into the hospitality business when he worked as part of the maintenance crew at an adjoining property. Luckily for us, in 2007 he became part of our very own Morukuru Family. Evanz was training up as a butler within six months and has never looked back. We caught up with Evanz and found out more about the man, the job and why for him, the Leopard will never change its spots!
As a butler at Morukuru Family Madikwe, one of your jobs is to create unforgettable experiences for your guests…what tricks do you have up your sleeve? My main secret is to always create a relaxed environment for my guests. I find a genuine, warm smile a powerful secret weapon.
What is your favourite part of your job? I have a true passion for creating new cocktails for my guests. So, Tom Cruise could learn a thing from me (Cocktail the Movie, 1988)! Ha Ha Ha!
What is the biggest challenge in your job? With so many international guests from all over the world -sometimes there is a language barrier. But I find sincerity and a positive attitude smooths the way.
Morukuru Family Madikwe often hosts families with young children - how do you make holidays the best for your little guests? I find kids respond well to a casual atmosphere, freedom and fun. One trick I use is giving pet names, and my favourite pet name is "Princess".
Have you had the opportunity to travel in our country - have you visited any other Morukuru properties? Over many years at Morukuru Family, I have had the opportunity to visit all the properties in the group. I consider myself very lucky and appreciate each property's exceptional beauty and atmosphere.
Have you ever travelled outside South Africa? I have had the opportunity to travel to the Netherlands and found it a beautiful country and would easily revisit it.
Morukuru Family Madikwe is an award-winning property - does it make you proud to work somewhere which has received so many accolades? Nothing beats working for one of the best in the business!
Morukuru Family Madikwe is well-known for its excellent food - tell us your favourite dish off the dinner menu and why? Hands down, the winner is Bobotie – due to it being a traditional South African dish.
What's your favourite animal? Definitely, the Leopard because it is a very successful hunter in the African bush. Did you know: Leopards can run at up to 58km/h! They're super flexible and can leap 6m forward through the air.
Share some compliments guests have given you? I often get asked if I can fit in a suitcase - LOL!
What keeps you motivated, and where do you see yourself in five years? I will be here, ready & waiting to make my next guests a cocktail and maybe by then, I will have cracked the secret to fitting in a suitcase.
