Aha Hotels & Lodges Celebrate Heritage Through Handcrafted Lanyards at Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025

Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025 brought together the very best in tourism, and aha Hotels & Lodges proudly stood out — not just for their dynamic presence, but for their meaningful celebration of African culture through a small but striking detail: handcrafted lanyards.

Worn by the aha team throughout the event, these vibrant African-themed lanyards weren’t just a functional accessory. They were a tribute to the five homesteads that form the beating heart of Lesedi Cultural Village, a flagship property in the aha portfolio. Each lanyard was a piece of living heritage, meticulously handcrafted by two incredibly talented women who embody the cultural richness of the destination.

Flora Mapaila, originally from Limpopo, joined Lesedi in 1995. What began as a cultural role soon evolved into a deep passion for beadwork — a craft she’s now mastered for over three decades. Flora not only creates beautiful beadwork pieces but also teaches guests the fundamentals of the craft, offering them a hands-on connection to the culture she holds dear.

Leah Kabini, hailing from Mpumalanga, began her beadwork journey back in 1982. A natural artist, Leah arrived at Lesedi with an already impressive portfolio and further honed her skills to include personalized beaded names and jewellery. Her pieces are a vibrant expression of African storytelling through craft.

“We wanted to showcase something meaningful this year, Flora and Leah allowed us to do just that. These lanyards are more than souvenirs — they’re symbols of our commitment to authentic cultural preservation and community empowerment.” – Deidre Ward, Executive Sales and Marketing at aha Hotels and Lodges.

Attendees lucky enough to receive one of these limited-edition lanyards left with more than a memento — they carried a story of heritage, creativity, and the incredible women who continue to keep these traditions alive.

By blending tradition with tourism, aha Hotels & Lodges continues to champion responsible travel and meaningful guest experiences across its diverse portfolio. This simple yet impactful gesture at Indaba reminded everyone that some of the most powerful stories are told not just through places — but through people.

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