Lydia Masoleng

Lydia Masoleng is a former domestic worker (the South African euphemism for maid) who these days is the proud owner of her own business - this comfortable, spacious B&B in the vibrant township of Khayelitsha.

Lydia readily admits she had plenty to learn when she decided to become a B&B proprietor back in 1998. The idea came to her after she was asked to play host to two visiting American ladies through her local church.

Lydia has run Malebo's guesthouse with her daughter for six years. You must try some of Lydia's cooking! She prepares Xhosa food, Mngqusho, a dish made from beans and corn, served together with her self-brewed Umgomboti. She can prepare for small groups (lunch and dinner are available to guests on request) as well as accommodate larger groups (bring your friends over!).

Lydia can also help arrange transport services, township tours, visits to Lookout Hill (the Tourist and Cultural Centre in Khayelitsha), Shebeen (local hangout) tours and craft center visits. She can also set you up for dinner at a local restaurant run by her cousin which can be found just ten minutes down the road.

Lydia offers such good service that she has won prizes in guesthouse competitions, like first prize for Entrepreneur of the Year in 2000, from the Foundation for Economic and Business Development.