WNAM REPORT: The Hashoo School of Hospitality Management (HSHM) hosted an interactive session to celebrate four students selected to represent Pakistan for the first time at the Future Leaders Challenge (FLC) 2026, to be held in Dubai from February 9–12, 2026.
The Future Leaders Challenge (FLC) is a prestigious global competition that brings together hospitality students from leading institutions worldwide to address real-world challenges through innovation, leadership, and collaboration. HSHM’s participation marks Pakistan’s debut in this international forum, underscoring the institution’s commitment to nurturing young leaders for the country’s growing hospitality sector.
The session started with Mr. Faisal Naeem, Director Education, HSHM, giving an introduction of FLC to audience which included the cardinals of the selection process and an overview of FLC. Later, all the selected students introduced themselves to the audience. The event was graced by Mr. Azam Jamil, Advisor for Education to the CEO, Mr. Haseeb Gardezi, Executive Director Education, Mr Zaeem Yaqoo and Dr Umar from BNU apart from other executives related to hospitality industry. The distinguished guests engaged with the selected students, offering words of encouragement, sharing professional insights.
A total of 26 entries were received from HSHM’s four campuses, out of which 14 were shortlisted and four students were finally selected after a rigorous evaluation process. The finalists include Miss Anaya Khurram (Muzaffarabad, AJK), Miss Ayoon Ijaz (Lahore), Mr. Rafay Ahmad (Swat), and Mr. Abdullah Alam Khan (Mirpur, AJK). The team will represent HSHM and Pakistan at the FLC 2026 Finals in Dubai.
“This is a defining moment for hospitality education in Pakistan,” said Mr. Azam Jamil, Advisor for Education to the CEO, Hashoo Group. “These young individuals are not only competing on a global stage but also carrying the promise of a new era of professionalism and pride in our country’s hospitality industry.” Mr Haseeb Gardezi also addressed the audience and shared high hopes that these selected future leaders shall bring laurels to HSHM and Pakistan. He said” As you selected to represent HSHM at an international platform, remember—you are not just competing, you are carrying the values of excellence, respect, and integrity that defines Hashoo Group’s legacy”.
The event concluded with an expression of collective pride from the academic leadership of Hashoo Group, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to fostering academic excellence, experiential learning, and international exposure for its students. The selected team will now undergo structured mentorship and training under the guidance of Mr. Azam Jamil and HSHM faculty in preparation for the global finals.
HSHM’s participation in the Future Leaders Challenge 2026, first of its kind ever in Pakistan, represents a milestone for hospitality education in the country and aligns with Hashoo Group’s vision to empower the next generation of professionals who will shape the future of the nation’s service industry.
