Imagine a lone seed, cradled in the cracked earth of a war-torn landscape pushing tenaciously through hardened soil but fueled by the sun’s warmth and the promise of rain, it grows.
Like the seed, Telesphore Habera from a young age, nurtured a dream amidst challenges. Held within him was the unwavering potential for growth and resilience.
His journey began not in fertile fields, but in the bustling hospitality halls of Burundi and Uganda. Each experience, from the polished halls of Novotel Hotel in Burundi to the vibrant Sheraton Hotel in Kampala, was like a nourishing drop of water, germinating his skills and his vision.
Telesphore Habera, the owner of Demi Sheraton in Nyagatare District
Reclaiming his roots and ready to walk the journey to his dreams, Habera returned to his homeland, Rwanda following the liberation of the country.
His initial steps were tentative, like a young sprout testing the winds. He started small, renting people’s houses to establish his business, “Demi Sheraton,” a name echoing his aspirations. Yet, the Rwandan soil, though scarred, held untold potential. Local authorities, recognizing this potential, provided him with land, fertile ground for his dream to truly take root and flourish.
But the journey wasn’t without its thorns. Doubts, like harsh winds, threatened to uproot his resolve. Yet, Habera persevered, his determination echoing the seed’s unyielding grip on the earth.
As Nyagatare transformed, so did his vision. Today, Demi Sheraton stands tall, Its an ambiance restaurant and bar, with its fragrant garden and lively terrace, welcomes guests like a haven of shade and sustenance. The comfortable rooms, equipped with modern amenities, offer a peaceful respite, a sanctuary from the outside world.
Habera’s commitment extends beyond providing mere shelter. He holds a valid tourism operating license by Rwanda Development Board RDB), ensuring safety and quality, like a seed carefully nurtured to blossom into a healthy plant.
Like a sunlight, this establishment collaborates with others, fostering fair competition and growth within the industry. It has even branched out, establishing an outside catering department, offering specialized dishes beyond the hotel walls, like a seed dispersing its pollen, spreading its influence.
Infrastructure development in Nyagatare, like improved roads and access to water, has further nourished the landscape, energizing Habera and other entrepreneurs.
Inspired by neighboring hotels, Demi Sheraton its on road to a 4-star establishment, a towering symbol of ambition and the potential of Rwanda’s tourism industry.
Challenges, like unpredictable weather, still test the resolve. Managing finances, fluctuating client numbers, and navigating regulations are constant hurdles. Yet, Demi Sheraton like a seasoned tree with deep roots, remains grounded. Management emphasizes the importance of collaboration, seeking guidance and support from local authorities and private sector organizations.
Habera’s commitment to the community extends beyond hiring local youth. He sources his hotel requirements like meat and milk from Nyagatare farms, his roots intertwined with the local soil, fostering its growth and prosperity.
“You just have to be prepared for these challenges,” Habera says, “It doesn’t mean you should give up. Having the district authorities and the Private Sector Federation closer and in touch is very important because they guide us on how we can go about our business.” he adds.
Telesphore Habera’s story is not just about building a hotel; It’s a story of a seed that weathered harsh conditions to thrive into a vibrant symbol of hope and possibility.
His journey serves as an inspiration to all who dare to dream and, like him, plant their own seeds of hope in even the most challenging landscapes.
