24 February 2025 | Story: Tayron Mhlongo | Photo: Supplied
2 minutes read time
Meet Ms Fulufhelo Emre Tharaga, hailing from the small village of Ha-Munzhedzi in Venda, Limpopo. At just 20 years old, this dynamic student is pursuing a Diploma in Ecotourism Management at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) and is determined to make a significant impact on her community and beyond. As she embarks on her third year, her passion and determination are set to take the world by storm.
In an incredible achievement, Ms Fulufhelo has been shortlisted as one of the top three finalists to present her innovative proposal at the Future Leaders Forum during Meetings Africa 2025 an annual continental showcase hosted by SA Tourism In Sandton. This notable event, organised by Meeting Professionals International (MPI) and the Worldwide Exhibition for Incentive Travel, Meetings, and Events (IMEX) group, showcases the brightest minds from across Africa. Her research interests are in sustainable development and housing advocacy in Elias Motsoaledi, an informal settlement in Diepkloef, Soweto. Inspired by the core values of the MPI and IMEX proposal, Fulufhelo’s work is not merely academic but a heartfelt mission to uplift those living in challenging conditions.
The IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leaders Forum is more than just a competition; it is a transformative programme designed to inspire the next generation of event professionals. By providing networking opportunities and real-world experiences at major events such as IMEX Frankfurt and IMEX America, it fosters connections between students and industry experts, thereby enhancing career prospects in the events sector.
Fulufhelo’s journey began with encouragement from attending Meetings Africa in 2024, which ignited a fire within her to introduce the VUT Ecotourism Society to industry leaders, showcasing not only her talent but also her commitment to community engagement. Acting Research Professor Kaitano Dube and Ms Khanyisile Ngidi facilitated her entry into this competitive arena.
Prof Dube proudly shares in this moment of recognition: “This is a proud moment for the department and the university community. This is a prestigious recognition of the hard work our students and staff have come to be known for.”
Reflecting on this opportunity, Fulufhelo expressed her heartfelt sentiments: “This outcome simply represents an opportunity not just for my personal gain but also for the residents of Motsoaledi, who are living in unbearable conditions. It is an opportunity for this proposal to reach someone who can help improve their living conditions.”
As anticipation builds towards the announcement of the overall winner on 24 February 2025, Fulufhelo stands ready to seize the moment. The selected student will earn the chance to attend IMEX Frankfurt 2025 in Germany, competing for the coveted MPI Foundation scholarship and gaining international exposure.
VUT rallies behind Fulufhelo and others like her, as they pave the way for a brighter future through their innovative ideas and unshakable dedication.