An honours degree in Tourism Management from North-West University (NWU) is a gateway to success, both locally and internationally. Mirra Mathabela and Shelton Mahosi, two recent graduates, are prime examples of how NWU's tourism qualification opens global doors.

After graduating from NWU in 2023, Mirra and Shelton were selected for a prestigious four-month paid internship at the Charleston Palace Hotel in Charleston, South Carolina. Their journey didn’t stop there; after the internship, they moved to Austin, Texas, where they both secured exciting roles in the hospitality industry.

Mirra now works as a Guest Service Representative at the four-star Austin Marriott Downtown hotel. She describes her experience as a remarkable opportunity for personal and professional growth. “Working at the Austin Marriott Downtown has been an opportunity to learn and grow. I have gained a phenomenal skill set that will help me advance my career and professional experience," she says. Mirra's role has also allowed her to meet people from different cultures, including Taiwan, the Philippines, and Uzbekistan. She’s had the privilege of working on some of the hotel’s biggest events, including the Formula 1 Grand Prix and a high-profile event with former US President George W. Bush.

Shelton, meanwhile, is thriving at the Fairmont Austin Hotel, where he works as a Front Desk Agent in the Rooms Division. He values the exposure he has gained, saying, "Working in the hospitality industry provides a unique opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience, network with industry professionals, and gain a global perspective on industry expectations and offerings."

Both Mirra and Shelton credit their time at NWU with giving them the foundation and skills needed to excel internationally. They agree that working at such esteemed establishments has provided them with invaluable experience, industry insight and a network of contacts that will serve them well as they continue to build successful careers in the global tourism industry.

Their stories highlight how NWU's Honours in Tourism Management qualification is a springboard for ambitious graduates looking to make their mark on the world stage.

Shelton Mahosi

Mirra Mathabela