Food and Drink Wales Industry Board: update from Margaret Ogunbanwo (December 2025)

As we enter December, it’s remarkable to reflect on how far we've come since January. Now, we find ourselves preparing for Christmas and bidding farewell to 2025. Step by step, event by event, and day by day, we are wrapping up another year. Each of us is on a journey: whether that involves starting or growing a business, transforming ideas into reality, or sustaining our enterprises to support our communities.

My own journey as a foodie began before I turned 10, inspired by my Nana's delicious puff-puffs that I sold during school break (a venture I later learned was technically illegal!). This path has taken me from catering for the Crown Estate to teaching about diverse cuisines, including Indian and African, launched my own food brand Maggie’s African Twist in Gwyl Fwyd Caernarfon to authoring three cookery books and in November 2020, I proudly became a member of the Food and Drink Wales Industry Board. 

It has been a journey of discovery, filled with the dynamics of building and breaking down networks. This year I drove over four hours to attend Blas Cymru/Taste Wales for the first time - the longest trip I’ve made in two decades. Throughout this process, I have encountered wonderful producers and suppliers, and while 2025 has been a rollercoaster ride, it has been important for me to remember: it’s not just about the destination; it’s about enjoying the journey.

As we approach the end of 2025, I encourage you to take a few moments to appreciate your own journey, whether you're starting, growing, or winding down your business. Take a breather, look up, and smell the wet grass (if you're in Wales! 😁). The cycle will begin anew, and if you've found joy in this years’ experience, it will fuel your hope and inspiration for 2026. 

Let’s continue our collective journey to produce and showcase the best of Welsh food and drink. Wishing you a wonderful Christmas season! 

Enjoy the journey

Maggie O