Natasha, a 19-year-old originally from South Africa and now based in New Zealand, developed her passion for food through her interest in health and fitness. Inspired by her older brother’s bodybuilding journey, she became curious about nutrition and how quality food fuels the body. This curiosity led her to experiment in the kitchen, creating nutritious, high-protein versions of her favourite foods — which sparked the idea for her business, Grow-nola.

Grow-nola produces high-protein granola and protein granola bars made with clean, wholesome ingredients. Natasha founded the brand to fill a gap in the market — most snacks were either high in protein but full of additives, or natural but lacking protein. Her goal was to create convenient, nourishing, and transparently made products for people who value health, protein, and flavour.

Natasha joined The Kitchen Project to learn how to turn her product idea into a market-ready business. She describes the experience as transformative — learning from industry experts, gaining mentorship, and connecting with other food entrepreneurs. One of her proudest milestones was evolving from basic Tupperware samples with handwritten labels to professionally packaged products now sold at markets and in customers’ homes.

Looking ahead, Natasha envisions Grow-nola expanding across New Zealand and eventually into Australia. Her long-term goal is to develop a wider range of high-protein, whole-food breakfast and snack products that remain true to her brand’s commitment to quality and authenticity.