In an industry where hard work often happens behind the scenes, Tshepiso Ruth Konaite’s story stands out as one of visibility, determination, and triumph. From her early days in housekeeping to her current role as General Manager of MINT Hotel Rosebank and MINT Hotel Sandhurst, she has defied expectations, broken barriers, and inspired others along the way.
Her appointment to lead the two latest additions to the MINT Hotels portfolio in 2025 is more than just a personal milestone but doubles as a powerful example of how mentorship, resilience, and passion can create pathways for women in hospitality, an industry where leadership is still largely male-dominated.
Rising Through the Ranks
Tshepiso’s hospitality journey began in 2015. Like many, she started small, determined to learn every aspect of hotel operations. She joined MINT Hotels in 2020 as a Housekeeping Supervisor, where her meticulous attention to detail and ability to uplift her team quickly caught the attention of management.
Just a year later she was promoted to Housekeeping Manager, and by 2022 she was entrusted as Executive Housekeeper, overseeing housekeeping operations across four hotels. By 2023, her career had accelerated into senior management as Assistant General Manager at MINT Express Sandton View. In 2025, less than five years after joining MINT, she was promoted to General Manager, leading two of Johannesburg’s most dynamic properties being MINT Hotels Rosebank and MINT Hotels Sandhurst.
“I had always dreamed of managing a hotel,” she reflects. “What kept me motivated was the encouragement and mentorship I received here, and the spirit of teamwork that makes MINT such a unique group to be part of. Management has always believed in my potential and has therefore ensured that I receive appropriate mentorship and motivation.”
Leadership with Heart and Integrity
As Tshepiso stepped into management, she developed a leadership style shaped by empathy, integrity, and emotional intelligence. For her, people come first regardless of whether they are guests or employees. “Listening and valuing staff are just as important as setting high standards,” she explains. “When employees feel motivated, respected, and supported, they carry that pride into their work. Guests don’t just notice the service, they feel it.”
But her journey has not been without obstacles. Like many women working in traditionally male-led industries, she has faced skepticism and bias. She is candid about the challenges: managing people is demanding, and earning respect as a young female leader takes resilience. Yet, by staying calm, patient, and assertive, she has turned those hurdles into opportunities for growth. “I see challenges as lessons,” she says. “They’ve taught me strength, perseverance, and the importance of leading with compassion.”
A Vision for Rosebank and Sandhurst
Overseeing two major hotels is no small responsibility, but Tshepiso thrives on the challenge. With Rosebank known as one of Johannesburg’s most vibrant districts, and Sandhurst offering its own unique appeal, she envisions both hotels as destinations of choice for business and leisure travellers alike.
Her focus is threefold: operational excellence, guest satisfaction, and staff motivation. By investing in training and nurturing her teams, she aims to create an environment where staff feel proud to belong, ensuring guests enjoy the superior service that defines MINT Hotels. “MINT stands out because of the experience we create,” she explains. “It’s refreshing, comfortable, and memorable. We balance affordability with quality and that’s what keeps guests coming back.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
Tshepiso’s story resonates far beyond hospitality. It speaks to any woman or young person striving to grow into leadership. Her message is simple yet powerful, “Focus, resilience, and dreaming big are key. If my journey can inspire even one woman or young adult starting out their journey in the hospitality and tourism industry to see that it’s possible to rise from the ground up, then I’ve done something meaningful.”
From humble beginnings to the helm of two major hotels, Tshepiso’s journey is a reminder that success is not reserved for the few, but for those who start, persevere, and believe in themselves.
