By now most Joburgers will be aware that on 30 September 2015 the historic Rand Club shut its doors. Whether this move is temporary or permanent is a matter of debate but there is one man who believes emphatically that the best days of the Club are ahead. That man is Wilson Mphaga, the larger than life personality who has welcomed members and guests to the Rand Club for the past decade and a half. Earlier this week we were lucky enough to sit down and chat with the man that many have come to know as the ‘Face of the Club’.
Wilson Mphaga in his 'office' at the entrance to the Rand Club
Wilson’s career at the Rand Club began in 1983 after a successful interview for a position looking after members who stayed overnight on the top floors of the Club. This was where he learned how to relate and banter with members in a friendly and professional way. One member he got to know particularly well was a doctor who worked at Baragwanath Hospital. Wilson recalls proudly that the doctor loved the service and facilities of the Club so much that he made it his permanent home.
After a number of years establishing his reputation among staff and members, Wilson was offered...
