Calling all food lovers, wellness warriors and conscious cooks — The Good Life Show is back, and this year’s lineup is set to be nothing short of extraordinary. From May 30 to June 1, 2025, the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) will be buzzing with the best in food, beverage and sustainable living. And leading the charge? None other than the dynamic plant-based chef and zero-waste advocate, Bettina Campolucci Bordi.
A global citizen with roots in Denmark, Tanzania and Sweden, Bettina’s cooking is a fusion of bold African spices, Scandinavian simplicity and the comfort of Danish home cooking. Her journey into plant-based cuisine began as a personal health choice but quickly grew into a lifelong passion for sustainability and reducing food waste. Now, with an international following and a reputation for making plant-based eating both accessible and exciting, she’s bringing her signature flair to Cape Town.
At The Good Life Show, Bettina will host interactive cooking demos, proving that plant-based meals can be colourful, nourishing and full of flavour — without complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Expect fresh, locally inspired dishes that celebrate seasonal produce and innovative zero-waste hacks. And yes, audience members will get to taste her creations!
“I cannot wait to connect with like-minded food lovers and share my passion for plant-based cooking,” says Bettina. “For me, food is about nourishment — not just for us, but for the planet. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about making small, impactful choices. I look forward to inspiring people to embrace new ingredients and discover just how delicious sustainable cooking can be.”
But her influence extends beyond the kitchen. As a passionate advocate for the Chefs’ Manifesto, a global movement championing sustainability and ethical food practices, Bettina will also be speaking about the importance of conscious eating, reducing food waste, and supporting natural food systems.
Of course, we couldn’t let her go without a quick-fire round of foodie questions!
What ingredients do you swear by for big flavours?
Miso for umami, citrus for brightness and fermented foods for depth — these ingredients can transform a dish!
What’s one ingredient you can’t live without?
Lemons! They add freshness, balance flavours and elevate almost any dish. Also, nuts and seeds for texture and richness.
Favourite seasoning?
A good-quality flaky sea salt enhances everything. And I love smoked paprika for warmth and depth.
Whether you’re a dedicated plant-based eater or simply looking to incorporate more sustainable choices into your cooking, Bettina’s sessions at The Good Life Show are not to be missed. Get ready to be inspired, taste something new, and leave with a fresh perspective on food.
📅 Save the date: May 30 – June 1, 2025
📍 Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC)
Try this easy and delicious recipe from Bettina
Sweet Quinoa
Ingredients (Makes 2 portions)
1 pear
1 apple
1 orange, peeled
130g (4 1/2 oz/1 cup) precooked quinoa (any color)
Juice of 1/2 orange
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1 tablespoon raisins
1 tablespoon chopped almonds
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon cardamom
1 pinch of ground cloves
Plant yogurt, mint leaves,
or seasonal fruits, to serve
Booster
Sesame seeds
Chopped nuts
Method
Chop the apple, pear, and orange into small squares (smaller than bite-size) and put them in a bowl.
Add all the remaining ingredients and give it a good stir.
Enjoy with a dollop of plant yogurt, a few mint leaves, or a sprinkling of seasonal fruits.
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Experience the best of wellness at the Good Life Show’s 5th year
