Celebrating Strength, Growth & Sisterhood: Honouring Remarkable Women This Women’s Month

This Women’s Month, the iconic Drostdy Hotel in Graaff-Reinet proudly shines a spotlight on a few of the incredible women who form the heartbeat of its hospitality. From leadership to frontline service, these women bring passion, resilience, and vision to every aspect of the guest experience, and their stories inspire far beyond hotel walls. 

Tebello Polisane-Casper: Leading with Purpose 

Now General Manager at the Drostdy Hotel, Tebello’s journey began unexpectedly as a student waiter. From managing massive hotel operations at Emperors Palace to leading at Spier and now Drostdy, her path reflects bold ambition and unshakable integrity. Tebello draws inspiration from trailblazers like Thembi Kunene-Msimang and is herself a powerful mentor. “The hospitality industry is not for the faint-hearted, but it can be so rewarding if you stay focused,” she advises. For Tebello, Women’s Day is a time to “celebrate our success and embrace our shortfalls.” 

Anra Smith: Quiet Leadership, Loud Impact 

With over 16 years in the hospitality industry, Anra’s journey is one of quiet determination. Starting as a reservationist during her internship, she rose through the ranks to become the Wine Shop Manager at the Drostdy. For Anra, leadership isn’t about having all the answers. “Being a good leader is about listening, being patient, and helping your team do their best,” she reflects. Her strength lies in staying grounded through challenges, mentoring others, and proving that calm, compassionate leadership leaves the strongest legacy. 

Francinah George: A Heart for Service 

From her early days in restaurants to her current role at the Drostdy Hotel, Francinah thrives on connection and learning. Her warmth, reliability, and tenacity shine, especially in high-pressure moments. “Despite the pressure, I managed to keep everything under control,” she says, recalling a day when staff shortages tested her resolve. Inspired by her former mentor Beverly, Francinah continues to uplift others, urging young women to “work hard, be honest, and never stop learning.” 

Drostdy Hotel: Where Women Rise 

Steeped in 220 years of heritage, the Drostdy Hotel blends timeless elegance with a progressive vision. As part of its commitment to women’s empowerment, the hotel works closely with the South African College of Tourism (SACT), providing mentorship and hands-on training to young women from rural communities. Many go on to build thriving careers within the hotel, a testament to its inclusive, nurturing culture. 

Here, heritage isn’t just preserved, it’s lived and transformed by women every day. Whether leading departments, running events, or mentoring future stars, the women of the Drostdy redefine excellence. 

For these women, success is not only about professional growth, it’s also about sustainability and solidarity. Across roles, they share a common desire to see the industry become more accommodating to the realities of women’s lives. “A lot of talented women leave the industry because the hours can be tough,” says Anra. “We need more flexibility and support.” Francinah adds that uplifting one another is essential: “We celebrate each other’s wins and offer strength when things get hard.” Tebello echoes this call for collaboration, envisioning a future where “professional women support each other and fix each other’s crowns.” Together, they are reshaping hospitality into a space where women don’t just survive, they thrive. 

A Toast to Women 

In a world that often overlooks the contributions of women in hospitality, Drostdy Hotel stands as a beacon of recognition, growth, and opportunity. This Women’s Month, we honour the women who lead with heart, serve with pride, and build a better future, one guest, one shift, and one story at a time. 

For all reservations inquiries, please contact reservations by telephone at +27 (0)49 892 2161 or by email at reservations@drostdy.co.za, or visit the website www.drostdy.co.za