Mindy Woods, chef and owner of Karkalla On Country, has been awarded the 2025 Champions of Change Award by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Woods, a Bundjalung woman, is recognized for her contributions to Indigenous food traditions, ethical sourcing, and community-building through cuisine. The Champions of Change Award was introduced in 2021 to honor individuals making a positive impact in the food and hospitality industry. As part of the award, 50 Best will provide financial support to Woods’ projects, helping her continue her work.
At Karkalla On Country, Woods creates a unique dining experience that combines native Australian ingredients with Indigenous storytelling and cultural heritage. Located on Bundjalung Country, the restaurant invites guests to learn about the land and the traditional foods that have sustained Indigenous communities for generations. Woods first gained national attention when she competed on MasterChef Australia, becoming the first queer Indigenous woman to appear on the show. Since then, she has used her platform to promote Aboriginal food culture and advocate for greater representation in the industry.
“I believe food is a powerful way to connect people to culture, land, and history. My goal is to continue creating spaces where we can all come together, embrace native and locally grown ingredients that not only honour the environment but also preserve the sustainable practices that have been passed down through generations,” says Woods.
Beyond her restaurants, Woods is involved in various projects aimed at preserving Indigenous food traditions. She authored Karkalla at Home, a cookbook that celebrates native ingredients, serves as a board member for Black Duck Foods, and educates students about Indigenous culture and sustainable food practices. Her work aims to elevate Indigenous voices while encouraging more sustainable approaches to food production.
William Drew, Director of Content for The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, praised Woods’ dedication to preserving and sharing Indigenous food traditions, stating that her work reflects the spirit of the Champions of Change Award. Woods will be officially honored at the 50 Best awards ceremony in Turin, Italy, on 19 June. The Champions of Change Award is one of several awards being announced ahead of the 50 Best ceremony. The event will feature discussions on food and hospitality, collaborative dining experiences, and the countdown to the highly anticipated list of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants for 2025.
