Bongi Dube, the trailblazing founder of the Africa’s Greatest Bakers Awards, is quietly reshaping how the continent recognises creativity in the baking industry. Now in its second year, her awards platform has grown from a simple dream into one of the region’s most inspiring celebrations of craftsmanship, entrepreneurship and community impact.

What began as Dube’s desire to honour the often-overlooked talent working behind ovens and countertops has blossomed into a continental movement. Bakers from across Southern Africa, whether running professional kitchens or home-based businesses, now have a stage where their skill, passion and cultural artistry are acknowledged. Last year’s inaugural winners, including standout names such as Nombulelo Maisa, Khensani Peters and Edna Baker, set the tone for an awards programme anchored in excellence and purpose.

This year’s edition, set for 28 October 2025 in Katlehong, has attracted even wider participation and media attention, underscoring how vital the baking sector has become to local economies. For many communities, bakers are more than creators of celebration cakes, they are job-makers, mentors, small-business leaders and contributors to Africa’s creative economy. Dube’s platform captures that story beautifully.

Through the Africa’s Greatest Bakers Awards, she is not just handing out trophies; she is building confidence, expanding opportunity and ensuring that African bakers see themselves as part of a respected, growing industry. In a continent brimming with talent, Bongi Dube is offering the one thing many creatives need most: a spotlight.