By Tshifhiwa Mudau
From a small village in Limpopo to the lecture halls of the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) and global recognition in the United States, Sharon Aluwani Mukhola is living proof that passion, purpose and perseverance can transform lives. The TUT alumna, now an NGAP Academic Lecturer in Hospitality Management and Fulbright Research Fellow, has built a career that bridges industry, education and mentorship, inspiring the next generation of hospitality professionals.
Sharon Aluwani Mukhola, TUT alumna, NGAP Academic Lecturer in Hospitality Management and Fulbright Research Fellow.
Born and raised in Mukondeni Village, Sharon’s journey was shaped by a deep respect for education. With a father who was a higher education academic and a mother who taught in local schools, the pursuit of knowledge was a family tradition. She still recalls the life-changing advice her father gave her in Grade 10:
“Never make money your biggest motivator in life. Do what you love, and money will follow.”
That wisdom remains the compass guiding her personal and professional journey.
Finding her calling at TUT
Sharon’s passion for hospitality was nurtured at TUT, where her lecturers identified her strengths and built her confidence. “I wasn’t the best in the kitchen, but I excelled academically and loved working with people and marketing,” she says. “Their encouragement made me realise I could also be that person for someone else.”
That realisation later inspired her to return to TUT as a lecturer, determined to pay forward the mentorship she once received.
Before joining academia, Mukhola made her mark in the hospitality industry. She began her career at Protea Hotels by Marriott, quickly rising from coordinator to key account executive, earning awards such as Coordinator of the Year and Sales Executive of the Year.
Her leadership journey continued at CATHSSETA, where she spent nearly a decade as Regional Manager and Hospitality Chamber Manager, shaping national strategies for skills development in the sector.
Today, she balances academia and research, pursuing her Doctor of Management Science (DMSc) in Food Operations Management. Her work focuses on bridging the gap between higher education and the hospitality industry to improve graduate employability.
Mentorship through realism and purpose
Sharon’s teaching philosophy is grounded in preparing students for the real world.
“You can spend years studying, only to be shocked by your first job,” she says. “I prepare my students for the realities — long hours, persistence and the importance of building relationships. Once you find your place and nurture it, opportunities will follow.”
Beyond her lectures, she serves on industry advisory boards, participates in hospitality events and leverages her professional networks to open doors for her students.
Global recognition and lasting impact
Her excellence has not gone unnoticed. As a Fulbright Research Fellow at North Carolina Central University, Sharon received the Top Research Presentation Award in the Business School (Graduate Category) and was inducted into the Eta Sigma Delta International Honor Society for Hospitality and Tourism Management.
Yet, her heart remains with TUT.
“My foundation was built here. TUT shaped my confidence and drive to succeed. Now, my mission is to ensure the next generation of graduates are prepared for global opportunities.”
Sharon credits her strong circle of fellow TUT alumni as her personal “advisory board.” Among them are leaders such as a Senior ICT Manager at the South African Reserve Bank, a Chief Operations Officer in medical technology and a Regional Procurement Manager for BP in Southern Africa.
“They are a living testament to TUT’s ability to produce graduates who make a meaningful impact,” she says. “You are only as strong as the people you surround yourself with.
As both a mentor and role model, Sharon continues to champion authenticity and purpose-driven careers. Her advice to students is heartfelt and timeless: “Always ask yourself who you are and what makes you special. Nurture it, grow it, and release it into the world with love. Do what makes you happy; never chase what only looks prestigious. Passion shows — and people love working with those who love what they do.”
As both a mentor and role model, Sharon Mukhola continuously champions authenticity and purpose-driven careers.