By Nokuthula Khwela
I recently had the pleasure of joining a media trip to the breathtaking Euphoria Golf & Lifestyle Estate in Limpopo. And honestly, who says no to an all-expenses-paid trip? But more than the luxury, I’ve come to love these trips for the networking, the stories shared between creators, and the special kind of magic that happens when you’re outside your usual space.
The Early Start
The day started at 5am, an hour before my internal alarm clock even had the chance to do its thing. Our hosts were thoughtful enough to organise pick-ups from our homes (bless them!) and off we went. Google Maps said the drive would be 2 hours and 30 minutes… lies. With the pothole-ridden roads and Limpopo’s slow, scenic route, the trip took closer to four hours. But the silver lining? That drive gave us time to connect. Strangers at first, but about two hours in, we were laughing, story-swapping, and building bonds that would only grow stronger over the weekend.
Welcome to Euphoria
Arriving at Euphoria was like stepping into a postcard. Rolling green hills, luxury villas, rivers, and even ostriches roaming across the golf field. Yes, actual ostriches. The air felt different calm, fresh, and full of possibility. And just when I thought it couldn’t get more surreal, we spotted springboks casually chilling around the villas like they belonged there. It’s the kind of place that makes you pause and appreciate being alive.
Our villa was gorgeous. Four en-suite bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a pool, and a braai area that screamed “sundowners, please!” I shared the space with an incredible group of women, while the guys had their own setup nearby.
We arrived to sweet surprises goodie bags waiting in our rooms. Spoilt doesn’t even begin to cover it. From the finest biltong to a bottle of my favourite wine (which I shamelessly opened and enjoyed the day we left), it set the tone for a weekend of thoughtful hospitality.
A Day of Purpose
After a quick lunch, we headed to the greens to catch the action. The energy? Impeccable. We were in the presence of black excellence, entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and community shapers all gathered for the GMFS x Santam Golf Day.
This wasn’t just about golf. It was about legacy.
Hosted by George Mahlakgane Financial Services (GMFS) in partnership with Santam, the event brought together clients, business leaders, and community stakeholders for a day that blended sport, strategy, and impact. Held on Friday, 23 May 2025, the event has grown into a flagship moment on the GMFS calendar now in its fourth year.
As a young black woman watching George Mahlakgane and his team in action, I felt empowered. It was a reminder that I, too, can attain greatness and build something that not only serves me but creates space for others. George’s own story is powerful building with family, operating with vision, and giving back at every turn.
Impact Over Everything
This year’s golf day raised R50,000 for the Dipeu Educational Fund, which supports top-performing students from TVET colleges in Limpopo’s Capricorn district. The fund isn’t about quick wins — it’s designed for long-term change. As George put it: “We realised that sporadic giving was not enough. The Dipeu Fund allows us to sow into a long-term vision and track the real impact we’re making.”
Headline sponsor Santam brought weight to the occasion, with support also coming from brands like BMW Polokwane, Absa, Old Mutual Insure, Lebowa Funerals, and more. Everyone was there with purpose not just to be seen, but to build.
Community and Connection
The guest list was as impressive as the vision: Presiding Bishop Mosa Sono, player manager Jazzman Mahlakgane, and veteran coach Khabo Zondo were all in attendance, further adding to the day’s stature.
From watching the tournament to mingling at the networking mixer, every moment felt intentional. Golf was the hook, but the real focus was connection, transformation, and upliftment.
A Weekend to Remember
We ended the trip just as we started spoiled. With more goodies on departure, hugs exchanged, and numbers saved. I left Euphoria full. Not just from the good food and wine, but from the inspiration I gathered in every conversation, every story, every reminder that black excellence is not a rarity, it’s a reality.
Trips like this remind me why I do what I do. They affirm that storytelling, visibility, and showing up in your power matter. Because when one of us wins, we all move closer to the light.
