Our Ambassadors are innovative leaders who are passionate about the African agricultural landscape and committed to the growth of the African agri-food sector. They share the African Food Changemakers vision of a flourishing, sustainable and just food system in Africa.
Together with our Team and Board of Directors, the African Food Changemakers Ambassadors are determined to contribute to our mission of driving profitable and sustainable growth of the African agriculture and food landscapes by attracting, empowering, equipping, connecting and celebrating over 1 Million dynamic and innovative young African agri-food entrepreneurs. across the continent for the transformation of Africa’s agricultural landscape.
CEO, Farmcraft Foods Limited
Maryjane Awai is a dynamic agripreneur and the founder and CEO of Farmcraft Foods Limited, a Lagos-based food processing company committed to transforming Nigeria’s agricultural landscape. With a background in marketing from the University of Uyo, Maryjane leverages her expertise to bridge the gap between local farmers and global markets.
Under her leadership, Farmcraft Foods specializes in producing ready-to-use bean products, including peeled beans, bean flour, and bean paste. These innovations not only add value to local produce but also empower farmers by providing them with sustainable market opportunities. Her mission is to redefine taste and convenience in Nigerian cuisine while promoting food safety and innovation.
Maryjane's entrepreneurial journey is marked by resilience and strategic growth. Starting with just ₦6,000, she has scaled Farmcraft Foods to achieve over ₦2 million in monthly revenue. Her participation in the Orange Corners Nigeria Cohort 11 program was pivotal, equipping her with insights into market dynamics and business strategy. Following the program, the company expanded into the UAE market, achieving a 200% increase in revenue within one month and securing ₦3.75 million in funding to scale its operations.
Beyond her business endeavors, Maryjane is passionate about empowering women and youth in agriculture. She believes that persistence and innovation are key to overcoming challenges in the agribusiness sector. When not steering Farmcraft Foods, she enjoys singing, beach walks, and solo partying, embracing life's simple pleasures