04/06/2026
Meet the Food Loverβs Market Seeds of Change 2026 Top 10
Food Loverβs Market is proud to introduce the Top 10 entrepreneurs selected for the 2026 Seeds of Change Bootcamp, taking place in Cape Town from 8 to 12 June 2026.
These ten founders represent the kind of bold, practical and purpose-led thinking that is shaping the future of South African food. From farming and food innovation to manufacturing and value-added products, each business brings something unique to the table, and each founder has shown the heart, grit and potential needed to grow.
The 2026 Top 10 cohort is:
1. Ntombi Newbern, Great Planty
2. Mark Cussons, Coffee Sensations
3. Gontse Selaocoe, All Day Jam
4. Dorothy Mofomme, Pojupojou
5. Nonkululeko Ximba, Asante Saneen
6. Hulisani Mabugana, Ecovado
7. Phillborn Khoza, Unorthodox Chef
8. Sibongile Mtsabe, Sibocali Foods
9. Minnie Brink, Miracle Meel
10. Zandi Lipholo, Urban Farm Produce Technology
Over five days, the cohort will take part in a hands-on bootcamp focused on business development, product refinement, market readiness and pitching. The week will conclude with the Fertile Ground pitching day, where the entrepreneurs will present their businesses to a panel of judges.
For Food Loverβs Market, Seeds of Change forms part of its broader commitment to changing lives by supporting local entrepreneurs and helping build a stronger, more inclusive food economy.
Food Loverβs Market will continue to follow the journey of the 2026 cohort as they move through the bootcamp, pitching process and next stage of the programme.