Highly polite... and ambitious too!

The African Safari industry is unique in many ways. But one way we so much enjoy experiencing is the opportunities that people can create, pursue and realize.

Enough introduction - time to meet John Hipolite. Head waiter at Lamai Serengeti since Lamai opened its doors the 28^th of June 2011, John leads a team of seven. But how did John get here and does he have any plans for the future?

After graduation as a carpenter from Makiungu College in Singida, John joined Nomad in Sand Rivers Selous in 2004 to support the company with his woodwork knowledge. Although his first step in the safari industry, John did not speak a single word of English at the time.

Having enjoyed carpentry for nearly 3 years John knew he wanted more. So he studied English in his evening hours and spent his holidays in school, training his language skills. In 2007 he started waiter training in Sand Rivers Selous next to his carpentry position. A rising star, he quickly turned to a full time waiter in 2008.

Over the next 3 years John showed superb hospitality qualities. Growing to be ready to lead a team of people, his chance of becoming a head waiter came at Lamai Serengeti in 2011. Today John almost clocks a year in his more responsible role. Seemingly enjoying every minute of it, John mind is already figuring out his next step!

Guiding is what he would love to see himself doing in a few years from now. This March John starts a guiding course in Arusha – on his own initiative. He knows that if you really want something, you have to pursue it.

I told you it’s an enjoyable experience to meet with people with a strong sense of ambition... Time to meet with John face to face when you’re here!