The journey of lodge administrator Glad Magopane

In the heart of the Klaserie, where wildlife roams freely and each day brings something new, Glad Magopane has found her rhythm in charge of lodge administration at Baobab Ridge. Her curiosity, resilience, and willingness to embrace the unexpected have helped her carve out a place for herself, not just in a demanding job, but in a life that balances adventure, learning, and the simple joys of being close to nature...

At 31, Glad has already carved a path full of learning, adaptation, and quiet determination. Born in the small village of Brooklyn, near Acornhoek, her early life was shaped by community, family, and the rhythms of a rural upbringing. 

“Growing up in Brooklyn was quite nice,” she recalls. “I loved my school years and after taking a gap year I started working as a waiter at a local café, undertaking further education part time."

Glad’s drive to grow saw her qualify in financial management while balancing work commitments and when the café closed, she found her way into the hospitality world, starting as front of house at a small local lodge before moving up to a larger, luxury safari establishment in Hoedspruit. “I worked front of house and later I got a promotion to handle stock and processing for the company,” she says. 

Like most in the tourism industry, her career was interrupted by COVID, but she returned and continued to grow professionally, ultimately earning a promotion by 2022.

The transition to Baobab Bridge was a new chapter. “It’s a bit of a change, working in the wilderness instead of Hoedspruit,” she admits. “But I adapted, and I’m enjoying it. I was behind the scenes before, so now being on the floor, dealing with guests, and learning new things has been fun.”

Glad’s enthusiasm for learning extends beyond guest interactions. She’s delving into reservations work as well, working alongside her colleague, Baobab Ridge reservations manager Linda Arthur. “She’s a legend,” Glad laughs. “I didn’t have a clue about reservations before, but I’m learning.”

Adjusting to life in the bush came with its own challenges. “I was scared at first,” she confesses. “Coming from town, I wasn’t sure how I would adapt. How would I get along with new people and management? But I told myself I had to take the challenge. Life goes by quickly when you’re busy, and now it feels natural.” 

Glad has found a rhythm and a sense of belonging at Baobab Ridge. “It’s quite easy becoming part of the team. The other day, I told one of the chefs I felt like I’d been here six months already. It’s easy going, and I love learning and being on the floor. Everything’s looking bright. I enjoy working here.”

Family remains central to Glad’s life. She is one of five children, and although she doesn’t have children of her own yet, she feels grounded and content. “I’m just enjoying life and seeing how it goes. Plans come, but sometimes life decides for you.”

From a small village to the heart of the wild, Glad’s journey is one of growth, courage, and curiosity. Her story is a reminder that embracing change, learning along the way, and facing fears head-on can lead to unexpected and rewarding adventures.