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When she first moved to Joburg in 2003, Jessica Redinger risked it all by leaving behind everyone and everything she knew. For Redinger, pursuing her dreams was far more important than living a safe and comfortable life. Even though she was not familiar with the city, Joburg enthralled her with its magic and she soon made friends. Today, she's the GM of Hyde Hotel Rosebank (formerly voco Hotel The Bank), a luxurious destination in the heart of one of Joburg's friendliest and most walkable districts.
Redinger is a dynamic figure in the hospitality industry and has become known for paving the way for women in a male-dominated field. She works hard to lead by example, and, as she said in an interview with Tourism News Africa, "to shatter glass ceilings and dismantle gender stereotypes".
But Redinger's life is not all work. She's an avid trail runner and explorer of the city. She especially loves Rosebank, jacaranda season, and, above all, the people who surround her. "The highlight of my day is interacting with people!" she told Rosebank News. With her expert ability to work with both her guests and her handpicked team of "hotelitarians", she is fast becoming a well-known figure in the Joburg hotel world. "It has been a very exciting journey with unique experiences, and I am always grateful that these interactions made me who I am today."
We spoke to Redinger about moving to our fair city, the changing face of the hospitality industry, and where she goes thrifting in Joburg.
What drew you to the hospitality industry, and where did you start?
I was introduced to the hospitality industry by becoming a waitress at an iconic hotel on the Durban beachfront in 2001. The hotel group I was working for realised my potential and offered me a scholarship to study hospitality management. I was exposed to all departments within the hotel but found my passion for front-of-house in the rooms division department.
A new name and a fabulous facelift. What's different and exciting about Hyde Hotel Rosebank?
Hyde is a hotel brand that was founded in the LA music scene in 2008, the focus being on artists, both in the music and art scenes from the locale. This can already be seen in the hotel lobby, where bohemian chic elements have been brought to life. It’s a fun, unique brand where anything can happen... Some of the brand elements are fun, for example, the swinging seat at the elevators, the "try it on" elements in the rooms, and the global table concept that will soon become part of the lobby concept.
"Hotel stays are now an experience. The guest journey is so important."
Tell us about the space for live performances and the planned programme at Hyde Hotel Rosebank, and what this means for the Joburg scene.
Proud Mary has already come on board, and we have a homegrown DJ every Friday from 16:00 – 19:00 to bring in the weekend. In the new year, we are looking to partner with some of the music houses to showcase local talent. Proud Mary will be refurbing the terrace so that we can partner and activate this space. We also have a new addition, still to be announced early in 2025: an intimate, premium space for exclusive activations.
"Joburg has so much to offer. [...] I am a firm believer in exploring new things and trying new experiences."
How have hotels changed in terms of what they offer the public? It's not just about a bed for the night anymore.
Hotel stays are now an experience. The guest journey is so important, and the Hyde crew are testament to this – always friendly and making you feel comfortable. This is what keeps bringing guests back.
You strike us as someone who sees Joburg through fresh eyes. What underpins your world view?
Joburg has so much to offer. But so many of us who live here have yet to experience so much of what the city has to offer. I am a firm believer in exploring new things and trying new experiences.
"I am a firm believer that what you put out there will come back to you."
Years back, you signed your staff on for a concierge walk and training that we hosted, opening up the city for folks in the hospitality industry. What inspired you to act on this opportunity and why do you think this kind of ongoing development is important for tourism in Joburg?
The majority of the crew do not live in the area where the hotel is situated, so this was to equip them with the knowledge of what the Rosebank precinct has to offer so that they could experience the locale and ensure guests have the most authentic experience when staying at Hyde. There are so many experiences to leverage when visiting Rosebank, and we want to include everything that the neighbourhood has to offer.
If you don't mind us saying so, you are relatively young for a GM. How does this give you an edge?You just can’t see the grey hair yet, so it must be my energy that deceives you! I enjoy being in the know through connecting with the community and staying up to date through social media. I am a firm believer that what you put out there will come back to you.
You're also quite the fashionista. Tell us about your side quests, in all things vintage and thrifty.
I started my own thrifting business during the pandemic when many of us in the industry had to find other avenues of revenue. I connected with so many amazing people in the thrifting community and still remain in contact with many of them; some of them are based in Johannesburg and others in Cape Town. I love a good bargain, and it is a cost-effective way to build a wardrobe. It’s also a great way to clean out and consign with many of the resellers. I am always on the lookout for timeless pieces to add to my collection, whether current or vintage. I have a mantra: look good, feel good.
What brought you to Joburg and/or what makes you stay?
I relocated to Joburg for work in 2003, and my friends (who are now more like my family) are based here. I enjoy that the city is so diverse and friendly, and that there’s always something to do nearby. Also, this is where all my favourite thrift stores like Huntress, Wizards Vintage, and Iconix are based.
Home is...
Parkhurst, Joburg – such an amazing suburb, with great restaurants and boutique shopping on your doorstep. I enjoy taking the dogs for a walk in Verity Park or hopping across the spruit to Delta Park for a Parkrun on the weekends.
What is a surprising thing people might learn about Joburg by having a conversation with you?
Definitely my knowledge of thrift stores – perhaps I should start some curated shopping experiences for crew and guests.
What's your favourite Joburg suburb, and why do you choose it?
Although home is Parkhurst, Rosebank has always been a favourite suburb for me. I have always loved coming to Rosebank and now I get to spend every day in the centre of it. The redevelopment over the past few years has been interesting to watch, and I’ve loved seeing the suburb come to life even more. It has a different energy that draws you in. The mix of residential and commercial space lends to the diversity of people in the suburb.
What three things should a visitor not leave Joburg without seeing or experiencing?
Perhaps a bit biased – a meal and drinks at Proud Mary. Sunsets on Northcliff Hill with a group of friends, especially during jacaranda season. An afternoon run with the Run Tell That running crew in Rosebank.
"What makes someone a Joburger? Being open to any experience."
Your favourite Joburg author or favourite Joburg book?There are so many wonderful books and authors to choose from that it is quite a difficult task to pick one book or author. Some books that have been written, such as Born a Crime by Trevor Noah, allow the reader to have an insight into South Africa’s history and culture.
One song on your Joburg soundtrack that either is about Joburg or makes you think about this city?
A song that always reminds me of this city is All Around The World by R3HAB x A Touch Of Class. It instantly takes me back to Friday evenings in Joburg, when the city lights shine bright as I head out with friends, creating unforgettable memories. The energy of strangers we meet along the way only adds to the magic, making the night even more special.
The most memorable meal you have eaten in Joburg?
I would say that the most memorable meals I’ve had are all from Proud Mary – and my top three meals would be the crispy fried squid, oxtail croquettes, and salmon sashimi.
If you could buy one Joburg building, which would it be?
The Bank, of course; what more could you ask for? Work, eat, sleep, and play, all on your doorstep. [Editor's note: This is the converted building that now houses Hyde Hotel Rosebank.]
If you were Joburg's mayor for one day (average tenure), what would you change?
If I were mayor for a day, I’d make "happy hour" mandatory once a week – an opportunity for everyone to enjoy something fun and light-hearted, just to keep things fresh and exciting!
Favourite Joburg label, and why?
Not a label, but one of my favourite stores that hosts many South African designers is The Space. So many interesting pieces that you can adapt to any occasion.
What makes someone a Joburger?
Being open to any experience and being adventurous.
What do you love most about Joburg?
The people: everyone is friendly and open, and there are so many options and experiences to suit whatever you are in the mood for.
What do you least like about Joburg?
The infrastructure – thank goodness for a pool during a water outage.
Your number one tip for a first-time visitor to Joburg?
Be prepared to make your own perceptions about Joburg.
Who is one Joburg personality you would honour with the Freedom of the City if you could, and why?
There are numerous individuals I would like to honour for their unwavering contributions to society, particularly those in healthcare who risked their lives during the pandemic, as well as those who work relentlessly in education and social justice, and who play a pivotal role in advancing the city's development and well-being.
The perfect weekend in Joburg includes...
Start Saturday off with a run in one of the many parks, followed by coffee with friends. A spot of shopping before heading out to wine and dine. Sundays are for slow mornings, lunch braais, and pool days.
Three words that describe this city.
Diverse, lively, entertaining.
Check out some of our previous #MyJoburg interviews for more insights into the city:
#MyJoburg with Fehmida "Fehmz" Jordaan, Halaal Goods Market founder
#MyJoburg with Tayla Foong, co-founder of 99 Design store
#MyJoburg with Mary Sibande, trailblazing artist
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