For Mbali Ngcobo, success is about more than selling honey. It’s about creating opportunities for women to build better futures.

The Ballito entrepreneur recently won the 2026 iLembe Entrepreneur Programme with her business, Royal Honey.

Originally from Estcourt, Ngcobo founded Olive Tree Agric Projects and Consulting, trading as Royal Honey, in 2018.

The business specialises in raw, non-irradiated honey extracted directly from the hive, with a focus on quality, traceability and purity.

But it is Royal Honey’s people-centred approach that sets it apart. Through partnerships, training and mentorship, Ngcobo is helping women develop skills and opportunities in beekeeping. The business has hives in Gingindlovu, Maphumulo, Mandeni, Mfume and Bergville.

“So far, our programme has empowered 40 women in KwaZulu-Natal. Because we understand that training without opportunity can become another dead end,” said Ngcobo.

Entrepreneurship has also changed her outlook on life.

“It has taught me that success is not only measured by financial growth but also by the positive impact we create in other people’s lives.”

Ngcobo credits her parents with instilling the values of hard work, commitment, perseverance and respect that have shaped her entrepreneurial journey.

She also acknowledged the support of her mentors and business partners, Bethuel Sithole and Mr Mabuyakhulu, the Department of Rural Development, strategic partner Galit Cohen of Ripples For Change, and her beekeeping teacher and mentor, Deon Stewart.

“Like many entrepreneurs, I had a vision of what I wanted to achieve, but I also knew that building a successful business would require patience, hard work and a willingness to learn.”

With an academic background in agriculture, Ngcobo recognised an opportunity to build a business that could generate both economic and environmental benefits.

“I particularly enjoy working with women and emerging entrepreneurs, sharing knowledge and helping them identify opportunities within the agricultural sector.”

Looking ahead, she hopes to get Royal Honey onto the shelves of major retailers while expanding its beekeeping development programmes.

“Ultimately, I want to build a sustainable enterprise that contributes to food security, environmental conservation, job creation and an inclusive economy. I want Royal Honey to become more than just a honey brand; I want it to represent opportunity, empowerment and transformation.”

Royal Honey is available at royalhoney.co.za or via WhatsApp on 082 320 3947.