About Shobhita

Shobhita Soor is an influential social entrepreneur and leader in the global alternative protein movement. After earning joint degrees in law and business (BCL/LLB/MBA) from McGill University, she co-founded Aspire Food Group with her team, winning the prestigious $1 million Hult Prize in 2013 for their plan to commercialize insect protein. Aspire Food Group focuses on cricket farming as a highly sustainable and nutritious alternative to traditional livestock. Their methods, which use automated, vertical farming technology in North America (including a facility in London, Ontario), require far less land, water, and feed than beef production. Building on this success, Shobhita pivoted her focus to address the specific needs of the African continent. She spun off the Ghana operations of Aspire in 2020 to found and serve as CEO of Legendary Foods Africa. Based in Kumasi, Ghana, her company pioneers the farming and processing of palm weevil larvae, a traditionally consumed, highly nutritious insect. The company’s mission is to provide affordable, protein-rich products like sauces, cookies, and frozen larvae, boosting local food security without relying on imported goods or environmentally damaging methods. Shobhita’s work focuses on developing business strategies that respect local cultures and empowering rural farmers to participate in formal, sustainable economies. Her dedication to blending business success with social and environmental impact has earned her honors like the Forbes 30 Under 30 award.