CUT students were proudly crowned winners of the Future Leaders Challenge South Africa 2026 following an outstanding performance at the national competition held in Johannesburg from 4-5 May 2026.

This remarkable achievement highlights the excellence of CUT’s Advanced Diploma in Hospitality Management students, who demonstrated exceptional creativity, strategic thinking, and the ability to develop innovative, future-focused solutions to real challenges facing South Africa. Their progression from runners-up in 2025 to securing the top national ranking in 2026 reflects resilience, dedication, and the university’s strong commitment to developing industry-ready graduates.

The winning team, comprising students Mpumelelo Tsulo, Chantal Mothupi, Jessica Maseloa, and Naledi Modiri, was guided by Dalene Crowther and Marnus van Zyl. Their achievement highlights the strength of academic mentorship and collaboration within CUT’s Hospitality Management programme.

The victory not only brings immense pride to the university community but also positions CUT among South Africa’s leading institutions in cultivating innovative and socially responsive graduates. The team will go on to represent the university at the Future Leaders Challenge international finals in Dubai, 2027.

Hospitality Management students demonstrated exceptional creativity, strategic thinking, and the ability to develop innovative, future-focused solutions to real challenges facing South Africa.