In a township often overlooked by mainstream tourism, entrepreneurial power-couple Bulelani “Ace” Skaap and Annette Skaap have redefined what lifestyle, hospitality, and entertainment can look like. Their ventures—KwaAce Lounge and The Spade Boutique Hotel & Spa—stand as symbols of resilience, innovation, and township pride.
When and By Whom Were They Founded?
– KwaAce Lounge (Founded in 2007) Originally launched as Groova Lounge, this pub-and-grill was the brainchild of Ace Skaap, popularly known as Ace Mabheka. Over 15 years, he transformed the modest hangout into a multi-story premium entertainment destination now known as KwaAce Lounge. With VIP and VVIP sections, balcony views, and its famous shisa nyama, KwaAce has become a cultural landmark in Khayelitsha.
– The Spade Boutique Hotel & Spa (Founded in 2021) The luxury hotel project was spearheaded by Annette Skaap, a former SA Express flight attendant who brought her global hospitality experience back home. Officially opened on December 5, 2021, The Spade made history as South Africa’s first black-owned, 4-star luxury boutique hotel in a township. With 13 suites, a spa, pool, and fine dining, it offers world-class comfort without leaving Khayelitsha.
Impact on the Khayelitsha Community.
– Job Creation: Both establishments prioritize hiring local youth, offering training in hospitality and entertainment. – Boosting the Kasi Economy: By attracting affluent locals, suburban visitors, and international tourists, they ensure money circulates within Khayelitsha rather than flowing to Cape Town’s CBD. – Changing Perceptions: Their success challenges negative stereotypes about townships, proving that luxury, safety, and premium experiences can thrive eKasi. – Fair Relocation Support: During KwaAce’s expansion, Ace Skaap bought out neighboring properties at premium value, helping families relocate to safer homes within Khayelitsha.
Why They Became So Successful.
– Luxury Transition Concept: Annette Skaap infused international hotel standards with authentic township culture, creating a unique “Township Tourism” niche. – Deep Customer Connection: Both venues resonate with locals, who feel pride in supporting businesses that reflect their lifestyle and aspirations. – Synergy Between Entertainment & Lodging: KwaAce draws crowds for nightlife, while The Spade offers those same visitors a secure, luxurious place to stay—keeping tourism rooted in Khayelitsha.
The Spade Boutique Hotel & Spa- Location: 8 Alfred Nzo Street, Mandela Park, Khayelitsha – Rates: Rooms from R1,260 per night for two adults – Amenities: 13 suites, swimming pool, spa, restaurant
KwaAce Lounge- Location: 158 Phakamani Road, Khayelitsha – Vibe: Double-story venue with pub, VIP, and VVIP sections – Food & Drinks: Famous for shisa nyama and braai meats – Hours: Thursday–Sunday, 10:00 AM to 2:00 AM
A Township Legacy.
Together, Ace and Annette Skaap have proven that Khayelitsha is not just a place of struggle—it is a place of possibility. By blending luxury with local culture, they’ve created destinations that uplift the community, attract global attention, and inspire future township entrepreneurs.
KwaAce Lounge and The Spade Boutique Hotel & Spa are more than businesses. They are pillars of a new township narrative—one built on pride, empowerment, and legacy.
Siyanda Ngqayimbana A.K.A. Da blaq Bull: From the Streets of Makhaza to Global Hip Hop Recognition
Siyanda Ngqayimbana, also known as Da blaq Bull, is an emerging hip-hop sensation whose journey from the vibrant streets of Makhaza to the global music stage is capturing hearts and turning heads. Born and raised in the heart of 37sec Ghost Town, Siyanda’s narrative is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.
Siyanda’s love affair with rap began in 2014 while growing up in Site B, Khayelitsha. At the time, he was not yet recording his tracks, instead opting to express his lyrical prowess through freestyle videos captured on his phone. It wasn’t until he moved back to Makhaza in 2017 that Siyanda’s latent passion for music found fertile ground. In an environment where his friends weren’t particularly attuned to the hip-hop genre, Siyanda’s determination to create music was unyielding. He remained focused on his studies until the call of the craft could no longer be ignored.
A turning point came in Grade 10 when Siyanda’s ardor for writing and rapping was rekindled. A chance Facebook post seeking a studio in Makhaza led him to an encounter with fellow recording artist Nasy C Alta. This meeting marked the inception of Siyanda’s professional music journey. Under Nasy C Alta’s guidance, Siyanda recorded his first track, “Bombay,” produced by SO Deno which rapidly gained viral traction within his community. The track’s success not only established Siyanda as a force to be reckoned with but also ignited a fervor for musical expression that couldn’t be contained.
Siyanda’s trajectory skyrocketed when he collaborated with fellow Cape Town artists Mossi l Bay and Cynth Kid on “Ithongo Lemambs,” a collaboration that etched his name into the very fabric of Cape Town’s hip-hop scene. His international footprint expanded further with the release of “War Ready,” a collaboration with American artist Mizzy Hendrix . This transcontinental collaboration was a testament to Siyanda’s cross-cultural appeal, capturing the attention of listeners across digital platforms.
However, the journey was not without its obstacles. As the studio where he had been recording closed its doors, Siyanda’s musical momentum came to a temporary halt. But in 2023, a stroke of luck revitalized his journey. With the support of a neighbor who happened to be a recording artist armed with a laptop, Siyanda produced his latest track, “Testimony.” A song initially written in 2022, “Testimony” encapsulates Siyanda’s resilience and his unrelenting spirit to keep creating despite the odds.
Mark your calendars for September 20th as Siyanda Da Bull drops “Testimony” across all digital platforms. The release promises to be a testament not only to his growth as an artist but also to his dedication to his craft.
Siyanda Da Bull also has thrilling collaborations on the horizon. With a forthcoming track featuring the talented American artist Moonraq, alongside Mizzy Hedrix, Siyanda’s influence is poised to transcend borders. Furthermore, a collaboration with Rap God and kill Kris’s , another exceptional American artist, is also in the works, promising a musical experience that bridges continents.
Siyanda Da Bull Ngqayimbana’s journey is an ode to the resilience and passion of Africa’s rising hip-hop stars. His relentless drive and unwavering belief in his artistry continue to shape his path to greatness. As Siyanda continues to amplify his presence on the global music stage, he remains an inspiration to aspiring artists across the world.
