MANZINI- In a remarkable show of support for the local baking industry, Jonokuhle Upholstery officially presented an E15,000 Sofa L Couch to Miss Hloniphile Lukhele, winner of the Best Cake Appearance Award at the 2026 Bakers Awards.
The prize handover took place on Monday, 18 May 2026, following a successful partnership between Cake Baking Eswatini and Jonokuhle Upholstery. The award formed part of the prestigious Bakers Awards hosted by Cake Baking Eswatini on 28 March 2026 at The Gallery Hotel.
The E15,000 Sofa L Couch sponsorship marked one of the most historic and valuable prizes ever awarded within Eswatini’s baking industry. The winner, Miss Lukhele, who is based in Mbandlane, expressed heartfelt excitement and gratitude upon receiving the prize.
Speaking during the presentation, Lukhele described the award as a powerful motivation for bakers to continue sharpening their skills and to view baking not only as a hobby but as a serious business and career opportunity. She was accompanied by her mother, who proudly shared her joy and encouraged young people to pursue their talents with dedication. Lukhele further urged aspiring bakers to attend professional baking lessons, emphasizing the importance of training in personal growth and entrepreneurship.
Director of Jonokuhle Upholstery, Sibonokuhle Simelane, said the company is honoured to support initiatives that empower young entrepreneurs and creatives. He noted that baking has grown into an important and promising industry that contributes meaningfully to the country’s economy while creating opportunities for many individuals.
Meanwhile, Sibusiso Mashwama, leader of Cake Baking Eswatini, expressed sincere appreciation for the generous sponsorship. He highlighted that partnerships of this nature strengthen the organisation’s vision of empowering bakers across Eswatini and elevating the industry to greater heights.
Mashwama further revealed that the 2026 Bakers Awards successfully presented prizes worth a total of E32,000, making it one of the largest celebrations of baking talent in the country this year.
The Bakers Awards featured several categories, including Best Cake Appearance Award, Best Cake Taste Award, Best Cake That Tells a Story Award, Save E20 Per Order Award, Best Social Media Presence Award, among others.
The ceremony, held at The Gallery Hotel on 28 March 2026, brought together baking enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and supporters of the growing industry in a celebration of creativity, skill, and innovation.
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