The University of Venda’s Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management in the Faculty of Management, Commerce and Law recently achieved a remarkable milestone in the prestigious Middle East and Africa (MEA) Future Leaders Challenge, held in Dubai from 21 to 24 January 2025. This esteemed competition brought together some of the most promising young talents from leading universities across the region, and the University of Venda was honoured to be represented by four outstanding students.
Notably, Mr Udoritonda Matambela distinguished himself by securing first place in the competition, an exceptional accomplishment that positioned him among top contenders from esteemed institutions, including the Centre of Excellence: Tourism and Hospitality Management School in Morocco, the University of Prince Mugrin in Saudi Arabia, Pharos University in Alexandria, Egypt, Vatel Hotel and Tourism Business School in Mauritius, Boma International Hospitality College in Kenya, and The Swiss Hotel School in South Africa.
The competition was not only about winning but also about recognising excellence in various areas, and we are pleased to share that Ms Thato Violar Matjeke, one of our students, was named among the top 15 performers, highlighting the high calibre of talent within the University of Venda’s Tourism and Hospitality Management Department.
The students were accompanied by Ms Tondani Nethengwe, Head of the Department, and Dr Mukondeleli Manuga Radzilani, who served as a guiding teacher throughout the competition. Their mentorship and dedication played an integral role in the success of the students.
This achievement is a testament to the University of Venda’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and increasing its prominence in the global tourism and hospitality landscape. The department’s participation in the Future Leaders Challenge underscores its dedication to cultivating world-class leaders in the faculty and university at large who will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the tourism industry.
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication
University of Venda
Cell: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
