Decorex Cape Town recently played host to the first-ever Capitec Rising Star Award, an initiative aimed at spotlighting emerging voices in African craft and design.
Chosen from over 50 exhibitors across the handmadeAFRICA Pavilion and Design MRKT, two standout names took top honours this year: The Hungry Mute and Tusk Studio.
The Hungry Mute Takes Top Honours
The Rising Star Award winner, The Hungry Mute, is not your average food brand. Known for its beautifully designed, handcrafted brownies made with premium African ingredients, the brand reimagines food as both art and storytelling.
“My journey into the world of food design began with a deep desire to weave African narratives into the global culinary tapestry,” said Makomborera Mutezo, founder of The Hungry Mute.
“Winning this award is more than recognition—it’s a catalyst. It allows me to take my business to the next level, cover the substantial startup costs, and stay true to my mission of using food as both art and architecture to tell our continent’s story. I aim to highlight native ingredients and craft products that resonate with our identity and heritage. After all, food is not just nourishment; it is a universal language that connects us all.”
Each of The Hungry Mute’s creations speaks to a bigger idea: that food can be a cultural artefact, a connector, and a canvas for African narratives.
Tusk Studio Named Runner-Up
Runner-up Tusk Studio was also recognised as an emerging force in contemporary design. Their work blends modern aesthetics with age-old woodworking techniques and Southern African iconography, creating pieces that are both functional and deeply rooted in culture.
As part of the runner-up award, Tusk Studio receives prize money, mentorship, and an exhibition slot at handmadeAFRICA.
A Celebration of Creative Talent
The Capitec Rising Star Award was judged by a panel of experts in the creative and design industries, including House & Leisure’s Charl Edwards, gallerist Amy Ellenbogen, Between 10and5’s Annel Malan, and Alexis Barrell.
Winners were selected based on innovation, craftsmanship, sustainability, market appeal, and the power of their storytelling through design.
With another edition of the award set to take place at Decorex Johannesburg in July, this platform is already helping to elevate the next generation of African design talent.
Find out more about the Capitec Handmade Africa Design Market exhibitors.
