Our Team, Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat, South Africa

Gerhard & Michelle Thom

General Managers of Bushmans Kloof

We fell in love with Bushmans Kloof in 2010 when Gerhard worked as a Field Guide and Michelle as the assistant Front Office Manager. A few years later we got married and went off to work in some of the most incredible destinations in Africa as lodge managers. From the wetlands of the Okavango Delta in Botswana to the vast plains of the Serengeti in Tanzania. We are thrilled to be back home at Bushmans Kloof as General Managers. We look forward to share this incredible place with all guests.

Sikelela Mambalu

Deputy General Manager

In 2007, I joined Red Carnation Hotel Collection at Bushmans Kloof. The following year, I moved to The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, working in the People and Culture team. With diverse roles in Hospitality HR, I gained expertise in both HR and hotel operations. In 2019, I returned to Bushmans Kloof as the People and Culture Manager, later transitioning to my current role. I feel fortunate to work with this wonderful group, embodying the RCH Ambassador spirit.

Coenraad Boucher

Food & Beverage Manager

I’m proud and honoured to be part of a family who are leaders in the food and hospitality industry. I joined Bushmans Kloof in 2021 after traveling the world; experiencing different cultures, food and most importantly wine! Together with my dedicated team, we look forward to create incredible moments and memories that will last a lifetime!

Nashlin Groenewald

Vila Manager

My career in hospitality started in 2012 as a porter; my fascination with the natural world and a deep passion for hosting guests have been the driving forces behind my career. I worked my way up to a Field Guide in 2014 and assistant Head Guide in 2016. In 2023, I became a proud member of the Red Carnation Family, taking on the role of Villa Manager at Bushman’s Kloof. I look forward to hosting you at our beautiful Koro Lodge.

Jackie Boucher

Front of House Manager

With 22 years of experience in the Hospitality Industry locally and abroad, I joined Bushmans Kloof in 2021. I have a true love for nature and there is no better place in the world to rejuvenate the body, mind and soul than the magical Cederberg Mountains. Our Team strives for perfection every day and want to give our guests the home away from home feeling. Working for a family orientated company like Red Carnation Hotels is a real honour and even more so, being part of the Bushmans Kloof team.

Zenobia van Dyk

Head Field Guide

I started my journey at Bushmans Kloof in 2007. I have always been fascinated by the natural world and just love to share mother nature’s secrets with others. Together with my knowledgeable team we cannot wait to interpret the mystery and magic that is Bushmans Kloof to all our guests.

Kate Goldstone

Spa Manager

After graduating with a BA Honours degree, I shifted to Spa Therapy. After seeing a large part of the world on the cruise ships, I returned back to South Africa to work in lodges. Having worked in several 5 star lodges over the years, I could not turn down the opportunity to be a part of the Red Carnation family and strive my best to promote their standards.

Oliver Coetzee

Executive Chef

I started my journey to become a Chef in Germany, after which I completed Chef training at the prestigious Silwood school of Cookery in Cape Town. Apart from South Africa, I have also worked in Tuscany, Italy on Super Yachts along the Mediterranean. I joined the Red Carnation Family at Xigera as Executive Sous Chef in 2020 and joined Bushmans Kloof in 2023 as Executive Chef.

Londi Ndzima

Rock Art Curator

In 2005, I started my career with the Red Carnation Hotel Collection as a tour guide, working closely with Professor John Parkington to develop my knowledge and passion for the history of Rock-Art. With this passion, I dedicated myself to learning more and earned a formal qualification as a Field Guide in 2010. After rejoining the group in 2014, I was promoted to the role of Rock Art Curator. Each opportunity to share the rich history of Rock-Art with our guests fills me with excitement.

Meet our team