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Meet the Xigera team

Xigera is the first safari property to join the Red Carnation collection of hotels, and we have assembled an all-star team to welcome and delight our guests. With more than 30 years of African safari experience, Xigera is led by Ben Seager, working alongside a team handpicked from Red Carnation’s properties in South Africa, as well as expert local safari guides and hosts. We are thrilled to introduce the Xigera team who are waiting to welcome you…

Ben Seager

General Manager

I was born in a small mining town in South Africa, due to my parent’s vocation we moved around, giving me the opportunity to grow up across the lowveld and highveld regions. I spent most of my adolescence between South Africa and visiting my grandparents in Zimbabwe. After studying Hospitality Management, I left for the UK and joined Red Carnation Hotels in 2005. I am excited to return to Africa as General Manager of Xigera Safari Lodge and look forward to welcoming every guest.

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Quest Maundo

Lodge Manager

In my career I have risen through the ranks, and I believe that passion, vision and self-drive explains my successful path. I’ve been given the rare opportunity to work at Xigera Safari Lodge, and this has truly opened my eyes to international standards of travel, accommodation and food services of an unmatched standard. Seeing the new lodge being built from scratch under my watch is a great honour, and I am looking forward to managing it.

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Dikeledi Kakambi

People and Culture Manager

I work as an Administration and Human Resources Manager at Great Explorations, the parent company to Xigera Safari Lodge. I hold a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Human Resources Management and Industrial Relations, and a Diploma in Accounting and Business Studies. I am passionate about studying for both leisure, and also self-development and career advancement. My role at Xigera is to oversee staff relations, and work with all of our staff in developing their own careers.

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Ikalaheng Mogalakwe

Head Safari Guide

I was born in Maun, on the edge of the Okavango Delta. After completing my studies, I began my career in the tourism industry, working my way through the ranks to reach Assistant Camp Manager. I am excited to join Xigera Safari Lodge as Head Guide, and to take on the challenge of building a team and delivering the very best safari experience for all our guests.

Malaki Question-Maundo

Front of House Manager

Having been born in Maun and grown up in Khwai in the heart of the Delta, my connections with the Moremi Game Reserve run deep. I first realised my passion for the safari industry in 2015 and redirected my career after working for the Botswana Government for five years. I furthered my knowledge by studying Hospitality & Tourism Management and have loved every moment since. Hosting and interacting with people from all walks of life is my passion and I can’t wait to welcome you to Xigera.

Oratile Tom

Oratile Tom

Spa Manager

I have a BA Degree in International Spa Management from the University of Derby and have worked across 4 and 5-Star safari lodges around the Okavango Delta, Madikwe and Caprivi Islands. I have worked across many Leading Hotel of the World properties. My position as Spa Manager at Xigera is a great honour and I hope each guest leaves with a sense of ease and relaxation.

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Ziyaad Brown

Executive Chef

In my career I have been fortunate to have worked in a number of Africa's finest boutique hotels and safari lodges. From the Garden Route to Cape Town and the Greater Kruger National Park, I have experienced the best of African hospitality. Being a part of Xigera and Red Carnation Hotels has given me the opportunity to take my career to new heights.

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Nicole Siya

Guest Liaison Manager

I feel so fortunate to be a part of the Xigera Safari Lodge team. Before joining the safari industry, I achieved an international hotel management degree in Mauritius, followed by internships at hotels in Mauritius and Dubai. A career in hospitality has granted me the chance to meet incredible guests and colleagues, both leaving an indelible mark on me and allowing continuous room for growth.

Hendrick Jacks Jacobs

Executive Housekeeper

I was born in Kanye Village in the Southern part of Botswana and graduated from the Institute of Hotel and Tourism management in South Africa. My Hospitality career began in 2004 and has seen me work in an array of four or five-star Hotels in Botswana, including The Grand Palm Hotel & Convention, Hilton Garden Inn Gaborone, and Cresta Hotels. I am honoured to be part of Xigera Safari Lodge and Red Carnation Hotels, and look forward to showcasing my skills and talent in the safari sector.

Katie

Keitumetse Katie Batisane

Food & Beverage Manager

Born and raised in Sebina village, Botswana, I hold an Advanced Diploma in Hospitality & Tourism Management from Limkokwing University and a Diploma in Food & Beverage Services from FCTVE. Since 2004, I've worked in numerous restaurants, gaining extensive experience in the hospitality industry. Now, at Xigera, I am dedicated to setting and maintaining high standards for exceptional service and unforgettable guest experiences, showcasing my skills to create memorable moments for our guests.

The power of passion

It was nothing short of a dream come true for our family to become custodians of Xigera. Protecting the land and its wildlife, while empowering and uplifting local communities, is a cornerstone of the philosophy underpinning this remarkable new safari lodge.

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Victoria Tollman

Executive Vice President

I am proud to serve as Vice President of The Red Carnation Hotel Collection. I oversee all facets of the business with a special focus on the brand image, working closely with the Red Carnation commercial team across sales, marketing, and PR. My passion for people has led to my substantial involvement with the company pillars of Sustainability and DEI, ensuring best practices are embraced to create a lighter carbon footprint and that each member of the RCH family can be who they truly are.

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Toni Tollman

Executive Vice President

I am honoured to be Director of Design and Projects at Red Carnation Hotels, as well as sister brand Uniworld, the luxury river cruise line. Alongside my mother, I conceptualise, design and restore our portfolio of beautiful hotels and ships. My most recent project was the creation of Xigera, where we handcrafted every aspect, from the evocative interiors to one-of-a-kind encounters. It was been truly inspiring to be a part of the team bringing this spectacular, pioneering safari lodge to life.

We are proud to be part of a number of select and exclusive collections and memberships that share our values of outstanding service, exceptional guest experiences and generous hospitality.

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