Divine Hospitality: How Faith Guided Thabang Rapotu from Hotel Intern to Industry Entrepreneur

Loading player...
EPISODE SUMMARY
This episode features an inspiring conversation with Thabang Rapotu, who shares her remarkable journey in the hospitality industry and how her faith guided her career path. From her early internship at the Saxon Boutique Hotel to founding her own company, Poise Solutions, Tabang's story demonstrates how divine guidance and human connection can create professional success.
KEY TALKING POINTS
Thabang's Background and Education

Family upbringing that valued hospitality
Decision to study hospitality management rather than attending University of Pretoria
Appreciation for the diverse skill set required in hospitality management

Career Progression

Saxon Boutique Hotel - Started as an intern, worked in reservations and assisted the sales team
One and Only Cape Town - Relocated to help with the grand opening, working incredibly long hours
Twelve Apostles Hotel - First managerial position at just 23-24 years old
Additional roles at Cape Grace, Marriott, Minor Hotels, and Hilton Seychelles

Founding Poise Solutions

Company registered in 2021 during COVID while in Seychelles
Officially launched in June 2022
Name "Poise" represents God's grace
Logo features a butterfly symbolizing transformation, resilience, and hope

Poise Solutions Services ("Four Wings")

Sales representation for hotels
Mystery shopper services
Administrative support
Luxury travel consultation

Spiritual Elements

Scripture reference: Hebrews 13:2 - "Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it"
Recurring theme of divine guidance in career decisions
Reliance on "God's wisdom" when managing teams at a young age
Faith-based approach to business development

Business Philosophy

Views hospitality as "an art and a form of worship to God"
Emphasis on teamwork and collaboration
People-centric approach: "I generally love people"
Non-competitive mindset: "We all have a piece of pie available for us. It's just a matter of us learning how to share"

NOTABLE QUOTES

"The heart that goes behind everything that is served in hospitality is really an art and a form of worship to God."
"It's all about connecting to the human that's next to you."
"Without any of the team members, we wouldn't be where we were."
"Being a salesperson, you are naturally an entrepreneur."
"I don't see people as competition. I see people as friends that can help each other."

PRODUCTION NOTES

Episode reflects on the spiritual dimensions of hospitality work
Highlights the importance of valuing team members
Guest provides practical insights into the hospitality industry
Demonstrates how faith can guide professional development
Website mention: www.poisedsolutions.online
Social presence: Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn

TARGET AUDIENCE

Christians in business/professional settings
Hospitality industry professionals
Entrepreneurs and small business owners
Those interested in faith-based approaches to work
16 May 2025 English South Africa Christianity · Religion & Spirituality

Other recent episodes

New Year, New Mindset: A Fresh Start with Purpose

In this inspiring New Year episode, host Lynette Badenhorst welcomes listeners into 2026 with a powerful message about embracing fresh beginnings through faith. Broadcasting from JustGospel's studios, Lynette explores what it truly means to step into a new season with intentionality and divine purpose. The conversation centers on breaking free…
6 Jan 32 min

The Power of a Name: Liabo Seto's SME Revolution

On JustGospel's Just Business with Lindi Tshabangu, SABC journalist and SME On Point producer Liabo Seto shared how her royal heritage, divine calling, and award-winning entrepreneurship segment are changing South African lives. Blue-Blooded Legacy "My name is Shays—I'm born of a chief in Lesotho, blue-blooded, a share of the Bakwena…
2 Dec 2025 17 min

Enough is Enough: Vaal Triangle Movement's Peaceful Stand

On JustGospel's Faith at Work with Malefa Siou, Vaal Triangle Movement organizers Thomas and Bongi detailed their Friday march against Emfuleni Municipality's service failures—emphasizing peace, unity, and dignity. Why Now? "We decided it's enough. Our youth won't have a bright future if things continue like this," Thomas explained. "This is…
19 Oct 2025 35 min

Toriso: Mojalefa Rabodila's Journey from Sunday School to Stage

On JustGospel's Faith at Work with Malefa, singer-songwriter Mojalefa Rabodila shared how God pursued him through music—from dropping out of multiple courses to backing for legends, culminating in his gratitude album Toriso. The Cousin Who Lit the Spark Born and raised in Sebokeng Zone 12, Mojalefa grew up in church…
24 Oct 2025 33 min

As Ye Fall: Lucia Poggenpoel's Journey from Anxiety to Anthem

As Ye Fall: Lucia Poggenpoel's Journey from Anxiety to Anthem On JustGospel's Faith at Work with Malefa, singer-songwriter Lucia Poggenpoel shared how God transformed her paralyzing stage anxiety into confidence, and her deepest grief into healing music. The Social Butterfly Who Couldn't Sing "When TV went on with music, I…
17 Oct 2025 36 min