Sanctuary Mandela: A legacy of leadership for reflection in 2025

Sanctuary Mandela, the private residence of the late former president Nelson Mandela, is more than an intimate boutique hotel in the leafy suburb of Houghton Estate: It’s a living monument to the life and times and enduring leadership legacy of one of the world’s most revered leaders.

As businesses and organisations look ahead for a successful 2025, Sanctuary Mandela offers a unique and inspiring setting for small- or medium-sized conferences and events, brainstorming meetings, strategic planning, workshops and thoughtful team-building sessions.

More than just an iconic venue, it provides an immersive experience steeped in South Africa’s liberation history. “We wanted to create safe spaces for conversation,” says Jerry Mabena, CEO of Motsamayi Tourism Group, the oldest black-empowered tourism entity in South Africa which manages Sanctuary Mandela. “The spirit of Mandela and his ability to have a very inclusive type of leadership is embodied in the work that we do.”

Mabena, who has spent much time with those who knew Mandela well, highlights the importance of vulnerability in leadership: “It’s one of those things that comes from knowing what you don’t know,” he explains. “With that vulnerability comes an element of being able to give trust to the people around you.” This ethos of vulnerability, trust and empowerment is reflected within the walls of Sanctuary Mandela.

“Madiba would do this. Madiba would have done that,” Mabena recounts as he echoes the sentiments of those who worked closely with Mandela over the years. “In a way, you begin to internalise those principles.”

Sanctuary Mandela has been witness to countless historical meetings and intimate gatherings with the statesman: from Diana Ross and the Kennedy family to the Duchess of York and the Queen of the Netherlands.

This was his private home during the Codesa negotiations. Perhaps most poignant are the crucial meetings held here during the tumultuous 1990s as South Africa transitioned to democracy, with fellow freedom fighters like Ahmed Kathrada and current president Cyril Ramaphosa. “There were a number of very pressing meetings that happened in this house with Tokyo Sexwale and members of the ANC as Mandela was trying to prevent a civil war,” adds Mabena.

Various artefacts of Mandela’s life found throughout Sanctuary Mandela serve as a reminder of his leadership principles. His letters offer glimpses into his thoughts, struggles, personal relationships and professional life. One such letter that is on display in the Comrade Meeting room was written to PW Botha in February 1985, who was the first executive state president of South Africa at the time. It documents Mandela’s refusal to be released under the conditions set by the apartheid government and was signed by his comrades. It highlights Mandela’s unwavering commitment to his principles and the greater cause of South Africa’s liberation. This act of defiance played a key role in his eventual unconditional release on 11 February 1990.

For businesses and organisations seeking an iconic meeting venue that transcends the ordinary, Sanctuary Mandela offers a combination of history, heritage and leadership inspiration across its two boardroom-style meeting rooms. The Dalibunga meeting room is a high-tech boardroom that provides an intimate setting for 12 delegates. It is built in the same place where Mandela’s office was located, when the property was being used as the headquarters for the Nelson Mandela Foundation. The original fireplace and structure beams have been left intact. Meanwhile, the Comrade meeting room offers a professional and inspiring environment for up to 16 delegates. “We are a space where we celebrate [Mandela’s legacy],” says Mabena.

That is also the case with the culinary experience at the boutique hotel’s African contemporary fine-dining restaurant. It serves as a tribute to Mandela’s favourite dishes as prepared by his long-time personal chef, Xoliswa Ndoyiya. She was Madiba’s family chef for more than 20 years during his presidency and retirement, until his passing.

Sanctuary Mandela also offers a number of conference packages: half-day, full-day, and a full-day with an overnight stay.

In addition to the inspiring setting, Sanctuary Mandela offers all delegates the chance to visit the Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory, located 500 metres, or a few minutes’ walk, down the road. This convenient access allows conferencing attendees to further immerse themselves in Mandela’s legacy, exploring the archives with an on-site guide to deepen their understanding of his leadership legacy.

By hosting their meetings and conferences at Sanctuary Mandela, organisations can offer their teams a unique experience that goes beyond the typical corporate gathering. More than just a meeting place, Sanctuary Mandela provides an opportunity to reflect on the real purpose of organisational leadership, engage with South Africa’s history, draw inspiration from one of the world’s most iconic leaders, and return to work inspired by renewed purpose.

To book your meeting, conference or event at Sanctuary Mandela, telephone 010 035 0368 or email info@sanctuarymandela.com.