23/09/2026
The foundation of the Inter-Hotel Challenge has, over the years, been built on mentorship. On people who have walked the road before, learned the lessons, made the mistakes, built the careers, and then turned around to say: come, let me show you what I know.
Our mentors bring their industry experience, yes, but more than that, they bring perspective, open doors, share stories, challenge young people to think differently, and remind them that a career in hospitality can take them much further than they ever imagined.
This week, we’re getting to know Wandile Mpakumpaku beyond the title of “mentor” and asking him about the industry that has shaped his life, the lessons he’s gathered along the way, and what he hopes the next generation takes with them.
As South African hospitality professional and manager at ROOI at One&Only Cape Town, his own journey began at Capsicum Culinary Studio, where he studied Professional Cookery. In 2021, he was named Barista of the Year in the Reaching for Young Stars competition, and in 2023, he returned to the Inter-Hotel Challenge himself, competing in the W**e Steward category for The President Hotel.
Now, he finds himself on the other side of the table, helping shape the journeys of those coming after him.
On finding his way into hospitality
“What drew me to the hospitality industry is the love of people as a whole. I grew up always wanting to connect with people from all parts of the world, and hospitality has granted me that opportunity.”
This is perhaps hospitality at its heart: people, places, stories, and the beautiful possibility of bringing them all together.
On the things you only learn with time
“When I started, I had no idea that at the present time my mindset would be able to deal with the most difficult situations and turn them into the best personalised memories ever.
I had no idea that I would be the one creating jobs for the youth. However, it was always my dream to upskill the youth.”
Some lessons we learn through experience, pressure, unexpected turns and the realisation that the person you once hoped to become is now the person someone else is learning from.
His advice to the young people coming through
“Hospitality is a career that has a very fruitful, promising future. It is not just a job, but something that connects all parts of the world, celebrations and attractions that put a smile on faces.
The young must just learn as much as they can.”
And there is plenty to learn.
Food. Traditions. W**e. Sustainability. The story behind the product on the plate and the hands that made it possible.
As Wandile puts it:
“Focus on what is in front of you. Learn about food, traditions and w**e, as the South African w**e industry is growing. Most importantly, focus on how the product is made to make sure that you align with sustainability and share those skills with future generations.”
A career truly can open doors you never knew existed
“Everything is possible with effort and integrity. This industry has opened doors that I never imagined for myself.”
A fitting thought for anyone standing at the beginning of their own career. You may not know where the road leads yet. You only need to be willing to learn, to show up, and to take the next opportunity seriously.
And for the Inter-Hotel participants, Wandile has one final word:
“This is your time to shine. Take this opportunity seriously and show the world who you are. Be professional at all times, learn and ask questions.”
The next generation of hospitality is already here. We’re excited to see where they take it.
