A total of 34 participants recently concluded a butler training course, consisting of Team Leaders, Collection Managers and Secret Collection Hosts, culminating in a graduation ceremony last week Monday at The Weinberg in Windhoek.
Gondwana’s Secret Collection is a portfolio of exclusive hideaways - private pods, villas and one-of-a-kind retreats; designed for travellers who want complete privacy, personalised service and immersive luxury in Namibia’s most striking landscapes.
Namushasha River Villa. Photo credits: Willihem Johannes
With a refresher that took place 12-14 November, and the nine-day training facilitated by South African Butler Academy (SABA), held from 16 to 24 November 2025, it covered a comprehensive curriculum designed to build both the foundational mindset and practical skills required of a professional butler. Participants were introduced to the history and philosophy of butler service, along with professional ethics, discretion, and the importance of guest-centric service.
In addition, the training emphasised vital interpersonal competencies: participants learned proper etiquette, non-verbal communication, and how to navigate culturally diverse guest interactions. To tie theory to real-world scenarios, the course employed role-playing exercises, involving turn-down service and concierge interactions.
Participants during a wine handling session. Photo credits: Gondwana Collection Namibia
A core principle woven throughout the training was the “5 P’s – Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance”, aimed at helping participants deliver seamless and anticipatory service. Room orientation, valet duties, and practical presentation-skills formed part of the hands-on component, ensuring that the trainees could confidently perform nuanced guest-service tasks.
Gondwana and SABA also highlighted the concept of the “golden nugget” - the unique, personal touch or signature service that can elevate a guest’s stay from good to exceptional.
A number of the graduating participants alongside SABA representatives. Photo credits: Gondwana Collection Namibia
This concept underlines Gondwana’s ambition to offer bespoke, high-quality hospitality in its Secret Collection lodgings. At the closing ceremony, all participants passed their formal assessments and were awarded internationally accredited certificates. Gondwana’s investment in butler training reflects the company’s broader strategy: as its luxury portfolio expands, it is cultivating a new generation of high-touch service professionals who embody the principles of modern, personalised and authentic hospitality.