FACE 2 FACE with / Maria Nyawula owner of Victoria Manor.

QWhat inspired you to start your business in Komani?

AWhen I saw how kind people of Komani could be during my tough personal life periods and when I became the breadwinner in my family. When I converted my house initially to a hostel for girls, the support was overwhelming, although it was still very tough for me. What are the challenges you come across in your business?

As in most hospitality businesses, you have challenges with quality standards, good food and responsible service. I thank God that He blessed me with a wonderful staff that helps make this business less challenging.

How do you think your business is helpful to the community?

One of the things I started early in my business here was advocating corporate social responsibility (CSR) in my community by opening my hotel doors to community members free of charge for hosting functions, meetings and weddings etc. These days I go beyond that to provide assistance to schools, less privileged children and mothers too.

You recently assisted a class of matriculants in a local school and helped them achieve good matric results. From that experience what would you say to encourage people who have the means to also give a helping hand?

It is important that those whom God has blessed with means should also give to the less privileged. Everything we have is by the grace of God and it all belongs to Him. We are just custodians; so we must reach out to the less privileged. It is a civic responsibility and a duty to God, our nation and our community. What do you love about Komani?

Oh, its people. They are kind, warm and very considerate. When you need help, they stand beside you and help. It is one of the best communities in this great country of ours.

What is the greatest place you have visited and what do you love about it?

Bangkok the capital of Thailand. I love the way the people represent their country - they are warm, loving and welcoming.

How would you motivate other growing business owners?

As a growing business owner, you must first have undying passion in what you are doing. Then you must believe in yourself and never give up, no matter how tough the road. But above all, believe absolutely in God for miracles still happen every day. What is your daily motivation?

My children, my faith in God and a firm belief that tomorrow will always be better than today.