Midlands, KZN, 18 th July 2025 – Brahman Hills has been named the winner of the
prestigious Renewable Efficiency – Green Initiatives category at the 2025 KwaZulu-
Natal Top Business Awards, held last night (17 th July). This accolade recognises
businesses that are leading the way in renewable energy, sustainability, and
environmental impact.
Nestled in the heart of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, Brahman Hills has quietly
become one of South Africa’s most compelling case studies in sustainable luxury.
From operating 85% off-grid to upcycling waste into art and producing honey from
on-site beehives, the property has redefined what it means to be both green and
guest-centric.
“This award is a tribute to our team and our long-term vision and purpose,” says
Onwaba Gonyora, Executive Director of Brahman Hills. “We didn’t pursue
sustainability because it’s trendy. We chose it because it’s necessary. Because our
environment matters. Because our people matter. And because we believe that
business should be a force for good.”
The transformation of Brahman Hills began in 2014 when entrepreneur Iain Buchan
acquired the Windmills property and later rebranded it. Since then, what was once a
modest hospitality venue has evolved into a destination defined by award-winning
gardens, regenerative design and community-powered impact. Today, Brahman Hills
boasts:
30 hotel rooms and 12 five-star villas, many with private jacuzzis overlooking
indigenous landscapes;
A multi-award-winning spa featuring treatments rooted in nature and luxury;
An internationally-acclaimed Royal Horticulture Society Partner Garden, one
of only two in South Africa, built during COVID-19 by Brahman Hills staff (from
chefs to front-of-house);
Locally crafted beehives that produce over 140 litres of raw honey annually;
Rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems that supply fountains,
irrigation, and lake rehabilitation;
A waste strategy that includes zero single-use plastics, on-site composting,
and glass bottle refills;
Over 1,000 trees planted in the last year, contributing to carbon capture and
biodiversity.
But the numbers only tell part of the story. “We believe sustainability is lived through
people, not a concept or policy,” Gonyora explains. “Our gardens were built by our
people. Our art installations are made by local crafters using recycled materials. Our
solar panels aren’t just infrastructure; they’re a commitment to a cleaner, smarter
future. Every initiative reflects a culture of care.”
That culture is embedded across the whole business. Many of Brahman Hills’
leaders are shareholders, and the organisation prioritises growing talent from within.
The current Head of Gardens began as a casual worker. Staff are trained in
regenerative planting, sustainable cooking, and ethical hospitality practices. "It's this
approach that makes sustainability feel authentic rather than imposed," she notes.
“Every detail reflects our people’s creativity and commitment.”
Brahman Hills has also proven that sustainability isn’t just ethical, it’s economically
viable. All green infrastructure investments have been self-funded through reinvested
profits. “We’ve shown that profitability and purpose don’t have to compete,” said
Gonyora. “In fact, they can power each other.” And this economic viability enables
the business to extend its impact beyond the property's borders, partnering with The
Unlimited Child to give back, supporting 33 local crèches and encouraging staff to
volunteer.
The KZN Top Business Awards celebrate businesses that demonstrate leadership,
innovation, and impact across the province. Brahman Hills’ recognition in the
Renewable Efficiency category places it firmly on the map as a national benchmark
for eco-conscious hospitality.
And the journey is just getting started.
“This isn’t the finish line,” said Gonyora. “It’s motivation to keep going, to keep
reimagining how tourism, nature, people, and business can thrive together. We’re
honoured. And we’re ready for what’s next.”
ENDS
WORD COUNT: 593
A Press Release on Behalf of:
Onwaba Gonyora
Director: Brahman Hills
