Meet Tendai: An SLU student driving sustainable innovations

Originally from Zimbabwe, Tendai came to Sweden in 2024 through the Swedish Institute Global Professionals Scholarship. Since then, she has combined her studies with entrepreneurship and innovation, driven by a vision to develop solutions that contribute to both environmental sustainability and food security.

With support from SLU Holding and Axfoundation, she is developing a smoothie powder that combines fibre and vitamins from surplus Swedish apples with protein from algae. The concept aims to extend the lifespan of valuable food resources while offering consumers a healthy and sustainable product.

Tendai's achievements have already earned international attention. In 2026, she was one of the winners of the SLU and Sparbanksstiftelsen Uppland Innovation Award for an algae-based air purification innovation, and she was also selected for the prestigious Mercedes-Benz Beevisioneers Fellowship, which supports young entrepreneurs working on sustainable solutions.

Through determination, creativity and a strong commitment to sustainability, Tendai Abiola Dhodho is demonstrating how international students at SLU are helping drive innovation with global impact. 

At SLU Global, we are proud to have had Tendai as part of our student pool and are delighted to see her turning innovative ideas into real-world impact. We look forward to following her continued journey as an entrepreneur and changemaker.

Read the full story from SLU Holding, in Swedish:  Alger och överblivna äpplen är receptet på Tendais företagsidé - SLU Holding