Eric, a final year student at the School of Tourism and Hospitality (STH), describes his participation in the second edition of the Middle East and Africa Future Leaders Challenge (MEA FLC) as one of the most breathtaking experiences in his university life. This platform is designed for both hospitality and tourism students, bringing together industry leaders and universities with the aim of enhancing the quality of education, fostering talent development, and nurturing human capital growth. The FLC focuses on expanding the mindset of young individuals to find solutions to future challenges that may arise within the hospitality and tourism industry, making it more attractive to young innovators. 

The MEA Future Leaders Challenge 2024 started in September 2023, with students undergoing rigorous coaching. Students representing various schools collaborated in syndicate groups to brainstorm innovative solutions on the challenge’s problem statement;

“How can integration of AI and Cutting-edge technologies transform the perception of career opportunities within the hospitality and tourism sectors, making them more appealing to aspiring hospitality management graduates?” 

In a span of 3 months, students received guidance from the assigned coaches in the virtual weekly meeting. The coaching sessions were structured in 3 phases: Development of Entrepreneurial skills, Leadership skills, and Organizational development. The culmination of this training led to the MEA FLC held at Dubai, The Emirates School of Hospitality from 26th January 2024. Twenty two Hospitality and Tourism Schools across the Middle East and Africa converged to witness the students’ innovative ideas while professionals got a chance to form groundbreaking collaborations.

Eric highlights the unique experiences from the challenge, emphasizing the value of community over competition,

“This was the biggest and best cultural exchange within the hospitality and tourism industry I have ever experienced.”

 The Strathmore University school of Tourism and Hospitality prepped 3 final year students who travelled to Dubai for the final competition. The live event was held within four days. On the first day, the groups got a chance to finalize their ideas and rehearse their presentations for the semi-final competition. The day concluded with a stunning dinner at the Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront in Dubai, offering a breathtaking view of the iconic Dubai Skyline, Burj Khalifa.

On the second day, all groups presented their ideas and only six groups proceeded to the finals, including my group. On this day, the event extended beyond the competition where MEA FCL participants got the opportunity to host the first-ever walking dinner at Jumeirah Beach Dubai. We experienced the rich hospitality culture in Dubai across four different hotels on Jumeirah Beach; Movenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach, Rotana Hotel Jumeirah Beach, Address Beach Hotel Jumeirah Beach, and Double Tree by Hilton Jumeirah Beach Hotel. All offering a unique gastronomic journey through the different cuisines. This was the most enriching dinner!

On the final two days of the challenge, the final six groups presented. While my group did not win, my colleague Nicole’s group attained the overall runners up position. 

I am grateful to Strathmore School of Tourism and Hospitality for providing the opportunity for my classmates and I to participate in this global event. Special thanks to the faculty for enabling this most memorable experience that provided us with personal and professional positioning!” 

Article written by: Eric Gikonyo & Rose Njuguna