Steelworker-Turned-Barista Cassius Walker-Hunt Crowned Winner of S4C’s Busnes Bwyd
Steelworker-Turned-Barista Cassius Walker-Hunt Crowned Winner of S4C’s Busnes Bwyd
You can watch the full series on S4C Clic now!
Former steelworker and boxer, Cassius Walker-Hunt has made his mark in the world of Welsh food and drink by being crowned the winner of Busnes Bwyd (Food Business), an S4C series celebrating innovation and ambition in the food industry.
The series Busnes Bwyd, which is available to watch on S4C Clic and BBC iPlayer, followed six of Wales’ standout food and drink producers as they went head to head in a bid to win £5,000 in business funding and expert mentorship to take their ventures to the next level.
Over a series of challenges, they were faced with rigorous testing in branding, business planning, and market appeal – guided by two of Wales’ most respected business minds; entrepreneur Marian Evans and Professor Dylan Jones-Evans.
Cassius impressed the judges with his community-driven coffee business, Portablo Coffi, based in Aberafan Shopping Centre.
Judge Marian Evans said: “Cassius stood out not just for his ‘story’ but for his passion and work ethic. Portablo Coffi is more than just a café – it’s a space rooted in purpose, identity, and community. His journey from steelworker to starting his own business will inspire many. He has the determination needed to ensure the business is one to watch.”
From Steelworks to Coffee Visionary
At just 28, Cassius has already made his mark across multiple arenas. In 2021, he clinched the elite 92kg Welsh Boxing Championship title. By the age of 25, he was serving as a local councillor.
When the last blast furnace at Tata Steel in Port Talbot shut down in September, Cassius was among the 1,900 workers affected. But instead of letting the setback define him, he saw it as a chance to follow a new passion: coffee.
With a clear mission – to create exceptional coffee with a personal touch – Cassius launched Portablo Coffi in the heart of Aberafan. He crafted his own signature blend using Arabica and Robusta beans, locally sourced handmade cups and partnered with a neighbouring small business for the café’s cakes.
In just over a year, the café has built a loyal customer base. But it’s become much more than just a place to grab a coffee. Cassius regularly hosts walking and running groups, transforming Portablo Coffi into a thriving community hub—where wellbeing, culture, and connection all come together.
Now, Cassius is aiming even higher. His next goal is to open his own roastery – and he’s already laying the groundwork, with hopes of taking his brand mainstream.
Thanks to Busnes Bwyd’s prizewinning mentorship and financial support, he’s taking bold steps forward: “I’ve already benefited from the mentorship,” says Cassius. “I’ve applied for a grant to help turn the business around, and I even had a stall at Urdd National Eisteddfod Dur a Mor 2025 because of it – which was amazing. People from all over Wales got to see me and the business.”
“Once you talk to successful people, they basically just tell you what you need to do.”
“I’m investing my cash prize in a roasting machine so I can start producing my own coffee right here. But the mentorship? That’s priceless.”
Reflecting on the experience, Cassius says: “I really enjoyed being part of Busnes Bwyd. You might think it’s just a TV series, but for me, it was a learning journey. We travelled around Wales, visited successful businesses, and every task taught us something.”
“When I used to win boxing competitions, I’d celebrate with my coach. This time, I was on my own – it was surreal. But it was fantastic.”
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