Brahman Hills Wins Top KZN Business Award for Redefining Sustainability in the Hospitality Sector

Nestled in the heart of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, Brahman Hills has become a compelling South African case study in sustainable luxury. From operating 85% off-grid to upcycling waste into art and producing honey from on-site beehives, the property has redefined what it means to be both green and guest-centric, says the hotel.

"This award is a tribute to our team and our long-term vision and purpose," says Onwaba Gonyora, Executive Director of Brahman Hills. "We didn't pursue sustainability because it's trendy. We chose it because it's necessary. Because our environment matters. Because our people matter. And because we believe that business should be a force for good."

The transformation of Brahman Hills began in 2014 when entrepreneur Iain Buchan acquired the Windmills property and later rebranded it. Since then, what was once a modest hospitality venue has evolved into a destination defined by award-winning gardens, regenerative design and community-powered impact, adds the hotel.

According to Brahman Hills, it currently consists of:

• 30 hotel rooms and 12 five-star villas, many with private jacuzzis overlooking indigenous landscapes.
• A multi-award-winning spa featuring treatments rooted in nature and luxury.
• An internationally-acclaimed Royal Horticulture Society Partner Garden, one of only two in South Africa built during COVID-19 by Brahman.
• Hills staff (from Chefs to Front-of-House).
• Locally crafted beehives that produce over 140 litres of raw honey annually.
• Rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems that supply fountains, irrigation and lake rehabilitation.
• A waste strategy that includes zero single-use plastics, on-site composting and glass bottle refills.
• Over 1 000 trees planted in the last year, contributing to carbon capture and biodiversity.

The numbers only tell part of the story. "We believe sustainability is lived through people, not a concept or policy," says Gonyora. "Our gardens were built by our people. Our art installations are made by local crafters using recycled materials. Our solar panels aren't just infrastructure; they're a commitment to a cleaner, smarter future. Every initiative reflects a culture of care."

That culture is embedded across the whole business. Many of Brahman Hills' leaders are shareholders and the organisation prioritises growing talent from within. The current Head of Gardens began as a casual worker. Staff are trained in regenerative planting, sustainable cooking and ethical hospitality practices. "It's this approach that makes sustainability feel authentic rather than imposed," Gonyora adds. "Every detail reflects our people's creativity and commitment."

Brahman Hills has also proven that sustainability isn't just ethical, it's economically viable. All green infrastructure investments have been self-funded through reinvested profits. "We've shown that profitability and purpose don't have to compete," says Gonyora. "In fact, they can power each other."

This economic viability enables the business to extend its impact beyond the property's borders, partnering with Non-profit Organisation, The Unlimited Child, to give back, supporting 33 local creches and encouraging staff to volunteer, adds the hotel.

The KZN Top Business Awards celebrates businesses that demonstrate leadership, innovation and impact across the province. Brahman Hills' recognition in the Renewable Efficiency category places it firmly on the map as a national benchmark for eco-conscious hospitality, says the hotel.

And the journey is just getting started. "This isn't the finish line," concludes Gonyora. "It's motivation to keep going, to keep reimagining how tourism, nature, people and business can thrive together. We're honoured. And we're ready for what's next."

For more information, visit www.brahmanhills.co.za. You can also follow Brahman Hills on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor