My Hosting Journey with Airbnb

[Zamani-Nonduduzo0]

My journey started in 2019 when I joined Airbnb Africa Academy. Before that, I didn’t even have a smartphone to download the app. But I was determined. Without a college degree, traditional job hunting hadn't worked for me, and I saw hosting as a real opportunity to build something of my own.

Since I was already running a homestay, I had many of the basics in place. Within months of publishing my listing, I got my first booking. I was thrilled and terrified. I didn't know how to use WhatsApp or Google Maps, so when my guests got lost, it became a two-hour adventure of phone calls and confusion. When they finally arrived, we were all so relieved.

I made sure they felt welcomed. The next day, while they visited a nearby park, I prepared their meal and had hot water ready for when they returned. Before they left, one of them gave me exact directions to my place to copy and paste for future guests. I still use those directions today. They also left me a five-star review, which gave me the confidence to believe I could really do this.

Then COVID hit. Cancellations piled up just as I was finding my footing. But Airbnb provided the Airbnb Academy Fund that kept me and my family going. The first time I saw that money in my account, I couldn't believe it. My mother and I both cried. For us, it was more than money. It gave us hope during an uncertain time. When Airbnb supported us again in 2022, I felt the same gratitude. 

As things slowly reopened, I was given a new opportunity: I was invited to Cape Town for Airbnb’s Community Leaders program. This would be my first time on an airplane. I was nervous, confused at the airport, and a little emotional. But a kind friend traveling with me helped me navigate everything, from boarding the plane to ordering a taxi on the other side.

In 2023, I was nominated to train as a facilitator for the Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy. In 2025, I was nominated to the Host Advisory Board. When I found out, I screamed with joy. I was thrilled to be trusted to share my experience and contribute to a community I love.  

Becoming a host has come with many firsts, as well as financial stability and the confidence to dream bigger. I’ve used what I've earned to repair my home, improve my space for guests, and support my family. 

I want to continue to expand my journey by buying more properties and growing as a host. But more than anything, I want others to know that if you start with nothing, it doesn't mean you end with nothing. Airbnb gave me more than a way to earn! Other than an opportunity to grow my business—it gave me a brighter future.

[Paula]

Hello @Zamani-Nonduduzo0, thanks so much for sharing your wonderful hosting story! It is very inspiring 🤗

If you expand to other properties, are you thinking of staying in Mpembheni, or are you looking to expand to other locations?

I am tagging some hosts here to see if they would like to share a bit of their hosting stories as well: @Thembelihle1 @Chione0 @Angel10141 and @Tomás-Abarzúa---Smart-Suites-Chile-SpA0 

Regards,

[Zamani-Nonduduzo0]

Hello @@Paula,Yes, I’ve already started at home where I am, with the two room house that is very huge. We should be finished before the end of June. I’m definitely planning to expand to other cities too, because for me this is more than just hosting it’s also a business

I feel like this is where I can truly focus and grow something meaningful. I’m excited about learning more about the business side of hosting and how I can expand properly over time into different cities while still keeping that warm and personal connection with guests.

Thank you so much

[Geoff7]

I love your story Zamani - many thanks for sharing this with us 💐

[Zamani-Nonduduzo0]

Thank you  @Geoff7

[Marcos760]

Olá @Zamani-Nonduduzo0 

What an extraordinary experience. It's very satisfying to hear from someone who had no experience and now has so much to teach. I'm happy to hear from someone who has grown so much on Airbnb.

This reminds me of those 3 years on Airbnb. Today I dedicate myself full-time to Airbnb as a host, co-host, and sometimes as a guest (that counts too), something I never imagined 3 years ago.

I didn't know that some countries have Airbnb Academy. I was thinking the other day that something like that should exist in Brazil (where I live). I think I could contribute with my experience and learn from other guests.

Thank you again.

[Zamani-Nonduduzo0]

Hello @Marco760 , Thank you so much. You know, when you think about the word Airbnb, it’s almost like you could write a song and sing along to it. That’s how inspiring it feels sometimes.

I definitely think the Academy is very good for people to learn how beautiful Airbnb can be the opportunities it creates, the connections with people, and all the positive experiences that come with it. It really opens minds and helps others see hosting not just as accommodation, but as something meaningful and life-changing as well.

I think that is really great. Thank you so much for your comment.

[Lazmee0]

Thank you for Sharing @Zamani-Nonduduzo0 . looking forward to learn from you. 

[Norma794]

The story of your journey is very inspiring. I am very new to hosting. I have not hosted my first guest yet. I'm excited but very anxious at the same time. Are there any tips you would like to share?