The Remarkable Journey of Salton Muheto in Events and Hospitality Entrepreneurship.

By The Campuser Reporter

Who is Salton Muheto?

Salton Muheto is a seasoned professional in the event-planning field, bringing extensive expertise from a distinguished career in the hospitality industry. With over six years of experience in prestigious hotels and events across Rwanda, Muheto has excelled as a part-time events and brands manager for the largest company in Rwanda and served as a Brand ambassador for Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessey. My journey reflects a seamless transition from a seasoned hotelier to a visionary events and hospitality entrepreneur, showcasing dedication, expertise, and an entrepreneurial spirit.

Which schools did you attend?

I obtained a High School diploma in Tourism at ES- TH GASOGI and a Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management from UTB (University of Tourism, Technology, and Business Studies) and went to Niger to pursue an MBA (Master of Business A d m i n i s t ra ti o n ) s p e c i fi ca l l y i n p ro j e c t management which still in progress.

How was it when you were growing up?

Growing up in a middle-class family, I harbored ambitious dreams and a deep passion for making my parent proud also longed to make a visible and meaningful contribution to my country from a young age. I cherished the value of teamwork since childhood, which eventually led me to establish Muhe Hospitality Services (MHS Ltd) a testament to my journey from a dream-filled youth to a successful young entrepreneur.

At what stage did you decide on your career choice?

Embarking on a career as an undergraduate student can be challenging, especially without sufficient capital. Despite the hurdles, fueled by passion and resilience, I decided to initiate my journey during my first year of college. Despite initial doubts about timing and resources, I realized it was the right time for me, illustrating the power of determination in pursuing one’s career choice.

Which people impacted you most in your journey?

The most impactful individuals in my journey are uMnrd.SohuebrifteSdelnygmenydofamily also my everyday clients, and dceonddiucctaintgecdlassceos i-nwDuobraki aendrsA.buTDhhaebii r experiences and collaboration shape my professional growth. Additionally, the guidance and leadership of our beloved President Paul Kagame, have been instrumental in influencing my approach within the hospitality industry.

Who is/are your role model (s)?

My role models are President Paul Kagame, Martin Luther King, and PLO Lumumba. Their leadership, vision, and commitment to positive change inspire and guide my journey, both in the field of hospitality and in life.

When and What was your turning point?

The turning point in my journey came in 2017, related to the gap of unemployed youth, and lack of experience in events and hospitality which was an issue for the youth. Despite the challenges of starting a career as an undergraduate with limited capital, my passion and determination prevailed.

It was at that moment I realized it was the right time to embark on my path in the hospitality industry. One key motivation for founding MHS company was the understanding that our society o en undervalues the significance of events. Frequently, gatherings are modest affairs, or they are relegated to casual home settings. Recognizing this as an opportunity, I eagerly seized it with both hands, aspiring to reshape the landscape of events in our community and also to solve the problem of working experience for the students by giving them training and job opportunities.

Where do you see yourself in flve years?

In five years, I see myself as a driving force behind Muhe Hospitality Services (MHS Company), acting as a bridge for numerous passionate youths to reach their dreams within the events and hospitality industry, to see MHS as an established one-stop-shop center for the events. Our commitment to staffing for events and hospitality has already impacted over

100 employees, providing them opportunities to secure permanent positions in hotels and events. Looking ahead, our vision includes an even bigger picture, solidifying our position as a key player in fostering growth and success within the industry.

How do you spend your day?

As an entrepreneur, my day begins at 6 Am with a moment of prayer for a bright day. Following a 30- minute jog or push-up and a refreshing cold shower, I delve into my day by checking messages, appointments, and bookings during breakfast. By 8 Am, I’m at the ofce, starting work. Appointments and meetings kick off around 10 am, with a break for lunch at 1 pm. Afternoon hours are dedicated to more meetings and appointments until around 3 pm.

What’s your favorite dish?

This is an interesting question! Well, I have quite a few favorite dishes since I genuinely enjoy eating. However, if I have to pick one, I’d say I don’t have personal preferences, but a traditional dish with cassava flour and cassava leaves (Isombe) is o en appreciated. One example is “Fufu (ugali) and Isombe, typically made with cassava leaves, meat, and sometimes fish.

Any advice to the youth like you?

To the aspiring youth, my advice is to follow your passion relentlessly. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, stay dedicated to your goals, and never underestimate the power of hard work. Surround yourself with mentors, learn from their experiences, and remember that success o en comes from resilience and continuous learning. Lastly, foster a collaborative spirit, as success is not just an individual journey but a collective effort.

Salton MUHETO is a Founder & CEO of MHS company

based in Rwanda