The Workshop team are responsible for a fleet of over 150 vehicles, maintaining everything from motorcycles to trucks and construction machines. The team have added to their skills and capacity over the years and almost all work is now able to be done on site.
Grumeti’s maintenance team of plumbers, electricians, carpenters, masons, painters and fundis look after all property assets and infrastructure, from the lodges to the water and power systems. This highly capable group of staff are multi-skilled – repairing canvas tents after storms, sanding and oiling timber decks, keeping the staff villages in good condition, servicing generators, maintaining swimming pools, ensuring consistent delivery of services, and everything in between.
Felister Ombory’s story
Breaking Barriers
Felister Phillip Ombory is a name you need on speed dial when you work at Grumeti Reserves. Coming from the bustling city of Dar es Salaam, Felister joined the company five years ago and has become a truly invaluable member of the team, serving as Maintenance Administrator. In a department that is typically male dominated, Felister has proven that passion and a willingness to learn and work hard can pave the way for anyone, regardless of gender.
Felister’s performance in her role has done so much to enhance the relationship between maintenance and other divisions. Maintenance is highly pressure, with (instead of which) almost every department depending on this team, often in emergency situations – having a calm, highly organised administrator at the centre of their operations has truly streamlined the maintenance department, allowing the technicians to get on with the job, knowing that all administrative tasks are being efficiently handled by Felister.
One of the most significant challenges Felister faced was during the 2020 COVID lockdown. As it was all over the world, this period was particularly tough with quarantine restrictions in place and long stretches separated from family and friends. However, Felister admired how the staff at Grumeti Reserves came together, fostering a close-knit community. “We created a positive vibe to help ourselves and others through the season,” she recalls. Despite the challenges, there were very special moments of bonding, and these experiences brought everyone closer.
Felister’s love for her job stems from the positive workplace environment that encourages learning and skills improvement. The maintenance team have recently moved into a new and improved workspace that has both technical and administrative duties to be performed in optimum conditions.
“It is a joy to work for a company that values good work environments, it is what you dream of when you start with a company”, says Felister. The regular training sessions provided by the company have significantly enhanced her skill set, allowing her to grow both personally and professionally, and this supportive atmosphere is something she values deeply.
Felister is not only a Maintenance Administrator – she is a trailblazer, an inspiration, and a testament to the fact that gender conventions can be successfully challenged and broken down.
Jeremiah “Mawaya” Seuta’s story
Crafting Excellence in Grumeti Reserves Workshop
Far away from any big city or town, the Grumeti Reserves Workshop hums with the energy and dedication of its team, led by Jeremiah “Mawaya” Seuta. Born in Arusha, Jeremiah, fondly known as Mawaya — a nickname derived from his expertise in electrical work (a nod to ‘wire’) — has been a cornerstone of the workshop for over 19 years.
Jeremiah’s journey with Grumeti Reserves began as an Auto Electrician. His unparalleled understanding of electrical systems quickly set him apart, earning him the nickname that now symbolises both his skill and his legacy. Over nearly two decades, Jeremiah has not only grown within the company but has also been a driving force behind its growth.
Together with the leadership team, Jeremiah has spearheaded the implementation of new systems and a robust preventative maintenance programme. These innovations have significantly improved the workshop’s efficiency and reliability. One of the most notable changes has been the strategic replacement of older vehicles, which required frequent and intensive repairs, with new, more reliable models. This shift has reduced downtime and allowed the team to focus on proactive rather than reactive maintenance.
Jeremiah’s passion for his work is evident in every project he undertakes. He finds immense satisfaction in working towards better results, a principle that resonates throughout the workshop. His leadership style is not just about managing tasks but about inspiring his team to achieve excellence. He believes in nurturing the potential within each team member, fostering an environment where everyone can learn, grow, and contribute to the workshop’s success.
Looking ahead, Jeremiah’s dream is to create a better future for the workshop team. He envisions a workshop that continues to set the standard for excellence in the region, a place where innovation and dedication drive every effort. His commitment to his team and the community around Grumeti Reserves is unwavering. Jeremiah sees a future where the workshop not only meets but exceeds the expectations of the company and the community it serves.
Mawaya’s story is one of dedication, innovation, and leadership. His journey from AutoElectrician to Workshop Foreman is a result of his skill, vision, and unwavering commitment. As he continues to inspire and develop his team, there is no doubt that the Grumeti Reserves Workshop will remain a beacon of excellence within the company and Western Serengeti.
