South African Guide-Dogs Association and BON Hotels Collaborate to Champion Accessibility in Hospitality

The South African Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind’s (GDA) partnership with BON Hotels continues to grow. GDA hosted a dynamic two-day Assistance Dog Access Program training at BON Hotels Majorca Apartments, in Cape Town on 4 and 5 June 2025.

The training brought together BON Hotels staff members for an immersive learning experience aimed at raising awareness around accessibility, disability inclusion, and the rights of individuals partnered with guide, service, and autism support dogs. Powerful testimonies from guide- and service dog owners, as well as presentations by GDA and puppy raisers formed part of the program.

This collaboration marks an important milestone in GDA’s ongoing mission to create inclusive environments across corporate South Africa. The program equips hospitality professionals with essential knowledge on how to welcome and accommodate individuals with disabilities, ensuring equal access and dignity for all guests.

“We are proud to work alongside BON Hotels in building a more inclusive and accessible hospitality industry,” said Mr Itumeleng Malefetsa, Corporate Fundraising Team Leader at GDA. “Their commitment to education and transformation in this space is not only commendable, it’s inspiring!”

Mr Pieter van Eck, Chief Operating Officer of BON Hotels, also attended the training, reinforcing BON Hotels’ dedication to social responsibility and inclusive service. This initiative is part of a broader partnership between GDA and BON Hotels, one rooted in shared values of inclusion, empowerment, and community impact. GDA looks forward to further deepening this collaboration through future engagements and training opportunities across the BON Hotels group.