The transition from high school to the next stage of life is full of uncertainty—but also an opportunity. It’s a time to ask big questions: What kind of impact do you want to make? How can you turn your interests into something meaningful? For those with an entrepreneurial mindset, the journey isn’t just about choosing a career; it’s about creating something new.

One entrepreneur who has done exactly that is Dean Smorenburg. As part of our Young Minds Conversations with Entrepreneurs initiative, Dean shared his story of breaking away from corporate consulting to building an innovative organisation in sustainable agriculture. Now the Founder and CEO of Maltento, he has built a company that transforms insects into high-value, functional nutrition solutions, revolutionising the way we think about sustainable protein.

Here are key insights from Dean’s journey for anyone thinking about their next big move:

1. Take a Bold Leap with Transferable Skills

Dean started out in corporate consulting but soon realised his passion for sustainable agriculture. He used transferable skills to change his entire career, taking everything he learned from his first roles to successfully pivot into a new industry.

Tip: Keep an open mind about where your skills and interests can take you—all roles teach skills that are transferable to new roles, industries, and sectors.

2. Innovation Starts with Curiosity

Dean’s journey into insect-based agriculture began as an experiment with earthworms in his apartment. His curiosity led him to discover the potential of black soldier flies as a sustainable protein source.

Tip: Keep experimenting and learning—sometimes the best ideas emerge from personal projects and hobbies.

3. Every Challenge is an Opportunity

Insect farming required overcoming negative perceptions and proving its commercial viability. By focusing on controlled processes and high-quality feedstock, Maltento successfully positioned itself as a premium supplier in the market.

Tip: Approach challenges as opportunities to differentiate and innovate.

4. A Strong Network Can Open Doors

Dean leveraged industry connections to secure partnerships with breweries, using their spent grain as sustainable feed for insects. This strategic collaboration provided a steady input source while reducing food waste.

Tip: Build relationships and look for mutually beneficial partnerships to accelerate your business growth.

5. Persistence Pays Off

Insect farming is not an easy sell, but through persistence, research, and continuous improvement, Maltento carved out a niche market, supplying pet food, aquaculture, and sustainable agriculture industries.

Tip: Stick with your vision, even when the road gets tough—persistence is key to breaking through market resistance.

6. Think Beyond the Obvious

Instead of competing directly with traditional protein sources like fishmeal, Maltento positioned its products as natural enhancers for pet and animal nutrition, commanding a higher value.

Tip: Identify ways to add unique value to your offering—differentiation is crucial in a competitive market.

7. Sustainability Can Be a Business Model

Dean’s approach focuses on creating a closed-loop system—upcycling food waste into high-value protein, reducing environmental impact, and enhancing food security.

Tip: Sustainability isn’t just good for the planet—it’s a smart business strategy that attracts conscious consumers and investors.

8. Adaptability is Crucial

As the industry evolved, so did Maltento’s focus—shifting from bulk protein production to specialised functional ingredients.

Tip: Stay flexible and be willing to pivot your business model when new opportunities arise.

9. Financial Planning is Key

Building an innovative business requires careful financial planning. Maltento secured seed funding to test and refine its concept before scaling operations.

Tip: Secure financial backing before scaling—whether through grants, partnerships, or investors.

10. Believe in Your Vision

What started as an experiment with insect farming is now a pioneering business with a global market. Dean’s success is a testament to the power of belief, resilience, and innovative thinking.

Tip: Stay committed to your mission, even if it takes time to gain traction.

Final Thoughts

Life after high school is a blank canvas, and how you choose to fill it is entirely up to you. Whether you dive into further studies, enter the workforce, or carve your own path, the most important thing is to stay open to new experiences and embrace the unknown. Opportunities don’t just appear—you create them through curiosity, determination, and a willingness to take risks. As Dean’s journey proves, turning ideas into success isn’t just about having a vision—it’s about taking action, adapting to challenges, and staying committed to the path you choose.

Stepping into the future can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. The Young Minds Programme at Stellenbosch Business School Executive Development offers a dynamic, Stellenbosch University-certified experience designed to equip school leavers with essential business, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills. This programme goes beyond the classroom, providing access to life coaching, job shadowing guidance, and expert-led workshops to help you gain clarity and confidence in your next steps.

Set yourself up for success—explore the Young Minds Programme and start shaping your future today!