Risking it all on the Potential of People

In 2022, the responsibility of building a team for Angama Amboseli came with a clear goal: to prioritise hiring from the families who owned the land, which forms Kimana Sanctuary. These were the families who had the foresight to place their land into a conservancy all those years ago and, by doing so, protect this critical elephant corridor. And so, the journey to find the perfect team began in April 2023 with an open call for applications.  

It’s been just over a year since Angama Amboseli opened its doors, and with it, an inspiring story of growth, determination, and transformation. This lodge is not just about the mountains, beautiful landscapes, or the Super Tuskers — it’s mostly about the people who work every day to make every guest experience extraordinary. 

Once the applications opened, more than 400 people applied for just 25 positions. With no HR team in place, the leadership team worked tirelessly. Interviewing 100 candidates per day from dawn till late into the evening was not easy.

Amid the sheer numbers, it became clear that this was about more than skills — it was about identifying potential. Many of the applicants had never worked in hospitality, so we prioritised personality, communication skills, and a willingness to learn, creating a team that was more than 60% inexperienced but full of promise. This was a risk we were honour-bound but even more willing to take.  

To ensure the team was ready for opening day, they underwent a three-month training programme at the 'Academy of Angama' in the Mara — Amboseli's very well-known older sister. The team was immersed in the principles of exceptional hospitality, and by 15 October, they returned to Amboseli, ready to bring their training to life. 

Andrew is a perfect example of this transformation. Initially, he applied for a cleaning position, but his potential to become a Butler was quickly recognised. Today, Andrew is hungry for knowledge, knows which dishes are the best on every menu, and serves them all with a wide smile.

Similarly, Leonard arrived as a cleaner and is now pursuing advanced training in community health at the Mara. Salaash, who joined as an Askari (security guard), is now a loved Guide, delighting guests with charm and deep knowledge of the elephants of the region — having worked as a Big Life Foundation ranger before joining Angama. But Joseph, originally a cleaner, is now a Chef making pizza at our wonderfully fun Tortilis dining. Sila, joined as a cleaner and is now a Suite Steward.

The stories of growth don’t stop there. Paul, who started as a casual labourer and the Guest Area cleaner, discovered he had a flair for wine during the Butler's wine training and is now an apprentice Butler.

These successes are the result of a leadership philosophy that puts people first. Always. We prioritise seeing the potential in people and nurturing it. In just a year, 60 team members have earned promotions (both big and small) — not just because of their talent but because of their drive to grow. 

At Angama Amboseli, hospitality isn’t just about service — it’s about opening doors, nurturing growth, and believing that with the right support, potential can thrive.