‘I’m honoured to continue serving UCT’

Hospitality manager at the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) All Africa House, Patrick Rezandt, was among a handful of staff members recognised in the Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Awards on 24 November.

Rezandt was recognised for his outstanding leadership at All Africa House, where he achieved high guest satisfaction ratings, improved operational efficiency, and integrated community outreach. His work exemplifies service excellence and social responsibility.

“I have dedicated the past 23 years of my career to UCT, growing within the institution and serving in various capacities. My journey has been one of commitment, growth, and a genuine passion for people, and I’m honoured to continue serving the UCT community,” Rezandt said.

His citation for the award noted the following as key contributions: achieved Agoda Customer Review Award and 90% guest satisfaction; increased revenue by 27%; secured three-star grading; and improved operational efficiency and integrated community outreach and staff development into hospitality operations.

“I am grateful and pleasantly surprised, because one never does this work expecting an applause. However, it is both humbling and affirming. While All Africa House has indeed earned several industry awards, this recognition from the university … feels deeply meaningful. It speaks not only to operational success but to the heart and soul behind the work,” Rezandt added.

“This award is not mine alone.”

“There are three constants, I believe, [that] have anchored me throughout my working career. Firstly, a commitment to service, which means understanding that hospitality is rooted in care, service and attention to detail. Secondly, investing in teams with compassion and ensuring staff feel empowered and valued. Thirdly, operational excellence with the emphasis on maintaining high standards, strong governance, and creating systems that ensure consistency and accountability.”

He continued: “A significant part of my journey has been the evolution of All Africa House. When it was first established, its primary purpose was to host scholars from across the continent and abroad. It was never intended for the public, nor was it operated as a commercial space. Over time, All Africa House was reconceptualised, and through the vision and steady leadership of our Directorate of Commercial Development – Hardy Maritz and Thobile Dlamini – we successfully transitioned from a predominantly academic accommodation facility into a fully-fledged commercial hospitality establishment.”

“The Climb”

He added that this award is not his alone. “It belongs to the incredible staff of All Africa House, and all colleagues who walk this journey with me. I would emphasise gratitude, collective effort, and the belief that excellence is achieved when we work with integrity, heart and purpose. To the staff: thank you for your resilience, your dedication, and your willingness to uphold high standards, even during difficult periods.”

What will keep All Africa House on the map is the intentional alignment with industry thinking, as well as evaluating standards, systems and guest experience indicators. Because the hospitality landscape evolves quickly, they will have to remain creative, innovative and adaptable.

A song that captures Rezandt’s mood is “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus. “The song reflects the journey: the perseverance, the late nights, the challenges, and the intentional decisions that shape leadership. It celebrates not just the destination, but the growth found in the climb itself. I would like to honour my family, the staff of All Africa House, our directorate, students and colleagues across UCT who consistently inspire me.”