In an inspiring blend of compassion, technology and entrepreneurship, Tumisho Thobejane, a postgraduate student at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT), is transforming how South Africa confronts the persistent challenges of food waste and hunger. As the founder of Fooddable, she told Vuk’Uzenzele that she has developed an innovative initiative that works with fast-food outlets to convert surplus food into nutritious meals for those most in need.
Thobejane’s work recently earned her a place among the top five finalists at the prestigious Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA) held in Pakistan in February 2025 — a highly competitive international platform showcasing promising student-led ventures.
“I am deeply thankful for the incredible support from VUT,” she said.
“Without the encouragement and resources provided by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, the Activation Office, the Technology Transfer Office, and the International Office, competing on a global stage would not have been possible. It was an opportunity to show what young South Africans are capable of.”
Originally from Katlehong, Gauteng, Thobejane is completing her Postgraduate Diploma in Biomedical Technology at VUT.
Fooddable was born out of a student innovation programme called Elapses in 2023, which focused on addressing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The team chose to tackle Goal 12: responsible consumption and production. Through extensive research into food waste and insecurity within retail and fast-food supply chains, they identified a pressing problem and an opportunity for change.
When large retailers proved unresponsive, the team pivoted to fast-food outlets.
“We discovered significant food waste, but restaurants were reluctant to simply give away free meals. To solve this, we designed a system where donors purchase tokens, and people in need redeem these tokens for meals at participating restaurants,” explained Thobejane.
At the heart of Fooddable lies an innovative cashless system using 3D-printed tokens embedded with QR codes. These durable tokens facilitate the seamless exchange of surplus food for nutritious meals.
“Before VUT’s support gave us access to 3D printing and computer-aided design training, we relied on fragile paper and cardboard tokens that often became unusable. Now, thanks to VUT, we have durable, effective tokens that truly make a difference,” said Thobejane.
Although major fast-food franchises initially declined to take part, local restaurants warmly embraced the pilot project.
“Franchises were cautious as we tested a prototype, but local eateries welcomed us. We’ve maintained strong partnerships with several since 2024,” she added.
Fooddable also garnered top honours in the Social Impact category at the EDHE Intervarsity competition, supported by the South African Breweries Foundation, which provides mentorship and funding to student entrepreneurs.
While still in its early stages and navigating the typical challenges of innovation, Fooddable is steadfast in its mission: to reduce food waste, feed those in need, and support local businesses.
“We are collecting crucial data to improve and expand the initiative, but the goal remains clear — to create a sustainable model that benefits communities and the environment alike,” concluded Thobejane.
Editor’s Note: This article showcases a powerful example of how young South Africans are using technology and creativity to solve critical social issues — food waste and hunger — on both local and global stages. Tumisho Thobejane’s Fooddable is not just an innovation; it is a beacon of hope that highlights the potential for sustainable, community-driven solutions to tackle pressing challenges. Whether you care about social entrepreneurship, sustainability, or technology’s role in society, this story will inspire and inform.
Description: Postgraduate student Tumisho Thobejane’s innovative initiative, Fooddable, is tackling food waste and hunger through technology and community partnership — earning international acclaim and changing lives in South Africa.
Editor: Thato Mahlangu
Project Manager: Do4SA
