HARVESTING HOPE: THE POWER OF COLLABORATION AT JOZINI TIGER LODGE & SPA

by Chelsey Hale

In a remote corner of northern KwaZulu-Natal, between Jozini Dam (Pongolapoort Dam) and the Lebombo Mountains, something quietly powerful is taking shape. Jozini Tiger Lodge & Spa, under the leadership of Ryan Crosley, is becoming a beacon for what South Africa so often needs: community-driven collaboration, compassion, and a shared sense of purpose.

Ryan with his mother Carol, partner Gemma and son Tylo.

Ryan’s journey to Jozini in 2022 wasn’t linear but rather a path shaped by challenges and growth. Although affectionately nicknamed the ‘white Zulu’ by his colleagues at Dream Hotels & Resorts, Ryan’s roots lie in the frenetic realm of Johannesburg, where he was raised primarily by his determined mother. A dedicated educator balancing two jobs, she steadily advanced her career from teaching at King Edward VII to Sandown High, and eventually held management positions at Wits University. She currently serves as the Registrar of Wits.

“I didn’t realise it at the time,” Ryan admits, “but growing up with an ambitious woman set the tone for how I see the world. There was always pressure, but it instilled a deep sense of resilience and perseverance.”

Those values would go on to define Ryan’s own path. From volunteering as a medic with the fire department in Johannesburg’s CBD to qualifying as an Intermediate Life Support Paramedic after matric, he found himself navigating high-pressure situations long before most of his peers had decided what they wanted from life.

“I’d probably seen more than I should have at that age. But overall, I’m used to being in intense situations. I can’t remember a time when I haven’t been in problem-solving mode, which has served me well in my managerial roles. It’s second nature,” he says.

Despite all his poise and helping Jozini win Dream Hotels & Resorts Large Resort of the Year for 2024, Ryan doesn’t hide the pressures of leadership. “This is the first time I’ve felt real personal stress and anxiety. My son, Tylo, starts high school next year. There’s worry about the future, job security, and the scale of this property. But there’s also so much potential here. Just look out the window. Jozini really is untapped magic.”

Prior to his tenure at Jozini, Ryan and his partner, Gemma Linforth, were based at Nibela Lake Lodge, a secluded holding in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. “Life has certainly changed with this move,” he reflects. “For one, I’m wearing a suit today! In some ways, things are easier; in others, more complex. But I can’t help but feel that I’m now in a position to make a meaningful impact on a larger scale.”

The couple made Nibela their home in 2017 and faced several challenges – from severe droughts and the devastation of Cyclone Isa to navigating the uncertainty of a global pandemic.

Ryan and his partner Gemma Linforth.

The stunning lake view at Nibela Lake Lodge.

Through it all, they played a pivotal role in restoring Nibela’s legacy as the wilderness wonderland it was always meant to be. It was also here that they welcomed their resilient second son, Emary-Quinn.

Tylo and Emary-Quinn.

Ryan, Gemma, Tylo and and Emary-Quinn.

Before life at Nibela, Ryan’s official leap into hospitality came unexpectedly when, in 2013, he was tasked with running a medical service within the wilds of Madikwe Game Reserve. “That was an important phase where I did a lot of soul-searching. You wouldn’t expect it,” he smiles, “but yoga played a big role in that part of my life. It taught me how to pause and consider other people’s realities. I used that time to think about the existential questions and what I wanted to do with my time here on Earth.”

Looking back, Ryan realises that dedicating his life to service roles led him to discover the importance of empathy, which he believes is one of the most misunderstood and overlooked values. “It’s not about being weak or soft. It’s about removing your ego long enough to truly see someone else – their fears, values, daily struggles, and all the things they hope for. That’s what connects us as humans.”

This mindset defines how Ryan now runs Jozini, coupled with his appreciation of well-defined systems and procedures: “Admittedly, I was a pretty naughty kid. It was the combination of school and boarding at King Edward VII High School that actually set me on the right path. I’m someone who needs procedures and clear boundaries, and that’s how I like to work at Jozini. I need things to be black and white. I don’t like grey areas as they create confusion, especially here, where training staff can be a major challenge. Clear parameters keep things moving and can help everyone thrive.”

An aerial view of Jozini Tiger Lodge & Spa in all its glory.

Ryan with his Head of Department team enjoying a group dinner.

And yet, despite his preference for structure, it was in a moment of spontaneity that one of Jozini’s most heartening collaborations began. “I still remember the day Sindi walked in wearing her green overalls, confident but humble. I actually stepped out of a meeting to talk to her. I’m so glad I did.”

Sindisiwe Mazibuko, born in Lebombo, describes herself as a mother first and a farmer second. She has worked hard to establish her five-hectare farm (Sindi & Kids Trading) in the uMkhanyakude District, which feeds, not just her family, but a growing community.

“Nothing goes to waste here,” she says. “Anything extra I give to the nearby school, or I take to trade at the Central Market in Durban.”

Sindisiwe Mazibuko standing proudly on her farm.

She employs seven local residents who work alongside her and does not shy away from expressing her dreams of doubling her land and exporting her produce internationally. Like Ryan, Sindi places strong emphasis on being a good parent, motivated daily by the desire to build a better life. “We might come from different backgrounds,” she says, “but that drive to want more for your family is something we share deeply.”

Sindi hails from a long line of agricultural workers. She recalls how her mother also laboured in the fields as a means of self-sufficiency, and that legacy continues through her own hands. “I am determined to grow my skills and knowledge and pass that on to my children and their children,” she adds.

It was this enduring spirit that led her to Jozini Tiger Lodge & Spa – a bold step that would bring her closer to realising her dreams of expanding her business. “I was very nervous going there, but I had to try,” Sindi says. “I’ve faced worse challenges like floods, sunburnt crops, and goats trampling my fields. I had nothing to lose. To me, this partnership is hope.”

Ryan, moved by not only her story but also the quality of her produce, has now established a committed partnership whereby she supplies the Jozini kitchen with fresh seasonal produce: onions, cabbage, tomatoes, lettuce and spinach, peppers, and various herbs – a selection of her primary crops.

“This food is grown with care and passed through local hands. That’s rare and beautiful,” he says. “Why import from elsewhere when we have talent like Sindi right here? Her courage to walk into Jozini Lodge that day led to meaningful collaboration, proving what’s possible when South Africans work together.”

Sindisiwe delivering fresh produce to Jozini Tiger Lodge & Spa.

“Food matters. To your business, your customers, and the farmers and growers who produce it,” says Kazlin Appadu, Jozini’s F&B Manager.

“Back when I used to work at a prominent resort in the Drakensberg, we shared supplies with our competitors when needed. It created a sense of togetherness. It made sense to create allies close by. That’s how we survived lockdown, and it’s the same energy and mindset we’re nurturing here at Jozini.”

Kazlin further emphasises that the area surrounding the lodge is home to a thriving micro-economy where local people are quietly building their livelihoods, led by sheer determination.

“There’s so much potential for transformation and growth,” he adds. “Ultimately, it’s not the scenic views or the architecture that make Jozini extraordinary – it’s the people who shape its story. People like Sindi, whose quiet courage is changing her community. People like Ryan, who see beyond their own role and envision a better future for all.”

Kazlin Appadu, Jozini’s F&B Manager.

Black fly maggots – nutrient-rich larvae transformed into high-protein poultry feed.

As part of the lodge’s commitment to fostering local partnerships, the team is exploring a collaboration with Charity Mapumulo, a soil scientist from the ARC – Institute for Soil, Climate, and Water. Charity is leading a Black Soldier Fly Project, a sustainable farming initiative originally developed by Stellenbosch University animal nutrition expert Dr Elsje Pieterse. The project transforms organic waste into nutrient-rich larvae, which are then used as a high-protein feed for poultry.

“Much like Sindi, Charity arrived at our doorstep asking for our organic waste, and I said absolutely!” Ryan says. “We’re just getting started with this, so it is still in its infancy, but we’re excited to see where it goes. It’s a massive stride for waste management that creates a loop of value benefiting multiple parties.”

“Food matters. To your business, your customers, and the farmers and growers who produce it,” says Kazlin Appadu, Jozini’s F&B Manager.

“Back when I used to work at a prominent resort in the Drakensberg, we shared supplies with our competitors when needed. It created a sense of togetherness. It made sense to create allies close by. That’s how we survived lockdown, and it’s the same energy and mindset we’re nurturing here at Jozini.”

Kazlin further emphasises that the area surrounding the lodge is home to a thriving micro-economy where local people are quietly building their livelihoods, led by sheer determination.

“There’s so much potential for transformation and growth,” he adds. “Ultimately, it’s not the scenic views or the architecture that make Jozini extraordinary – it’s the people who shape its story. People like Sindi, whose quiet courage is changing her community. People like Ryan, who see beyond their own role and envision a better future for all.”

Post search and rescue operation where Ryan skippers for the local EMS team.

FEDHASA East Coast Board.