In this episode of South African Food Stories, host Nicci Robertson sits down with Brenda Wilkinson to explore the remarkable journey behind one of South Africa’s most respected olive oil producers.

What began as a simple medical recommendation for Nick Wilkinson — to include more olive oil in his diet — ultimately led the Wilkinson family to build Rio Largo Olive Estate, an award-winning extra virgin olive oil brand produced on a farm outside Worcester.

Brenda shares how a Johannesburg city life unexpectedly transformed into a farming journey that began in Central Africa before returning to South Africa to start a new chapter in agriculture. With no background in olive oil production or sales, the family learned the industry from the ground up — navigating international competitions, skeptical buyers, and the complex realities of selling a premium product in a market dominated by imported oils.

The conversation also reveals the hidden side of the global olive oil industry — from widespread fraud and misleading labeling to the challenges faced by small producers trying to maintain quality and transparency. Brenda explains why fresh, properly produced extra virgin olive oil matters not only for taste but for health, and how consumer education remains one of the industry’s biggest challenges.

At its heart, this episode is a story about resilience, curiosity, and the unexpected ways passion can evolve into purpose. From knocking on restaurant doors with a basket of olive oil to winning international awards, Brenda’s journey highlights the dedication required to build a world-class food brand — and why supporting local producers matters more than ever.