Young farmers show the way

CELEBRATING its 10th anniversary, the KZN-based farming education initiative, Future Farmers, highlighted the progress of their interns at the Cedara Agricultural College last Friday.

The event was attended by the Deputy Director General of the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Elaine Alexander, MEC of Agriculture and Rural Development Cyril Xaba, agricultural industry leaders, sponsors and farmers who came together to recognise the achievements of current and past agricultural apprentices from the Future Farmers programme.

It is a unique social programme which aims to cultivate the skills and development of young aspiring farmers from around the country.

The programme provides young people with real job experiences in the field of agriculture, providing them with the opportunity to ‘learn as they earn’ by finding apprentice positions on local and then later, international farms.

The brainchild of former Howick dairy farmer Judy Stuart, Future Farmers has had many successful placements of eager young South African farmers on farms in New Zealand, Australia, America and Denmark, and has become a recognised role player in the future of KZN farming.

It has, with the backing of the KwaZulu-Natal Agricultural Union, Kwanalu, gained overwhelming support over the last few years from agri-businesses, sponsors and the agricultural industry at large.

Praise for achievements

In her address, Alexander said,’On behalf of Minister Zokwana, I would just like to say thank you to Judy (Stuart), her sponsors and supporters for the fantastic work that you are doing.

‘You, Judy, are changing lives and adding real substance to the growth and development of our youth and we applaud you for that.

‘This programme is exactly what our department is looking for and will support.’

The day’s programme included ‘Future Farmers’ who eagerly shared their unique experiences, enthusiasm for agriculture and their vision for the future.

Other speakers included, among others, MEC Xaba and the American Consul General, Frances Chisholm who all applauded the young men and women for their tenacity and hard work in following their dreams and becoming role models for the industry.

‘You are all very important cogs in the wheel that is turning the economic and social development of this country.

‘It is clear that we have an up-and-coming generation of hard working and enterprising young South Africans.

‘I am humbled by your experiences,’ said MEC Xaba.

‘Thank you Judy for helping unearth such talent.

‘My gratitude goes to each and every one of you future farmers for choosing to work on the land,’ he said.

Awards

The climax of the day saw outstanding participants in the programme each receive a certificate of recognition presented to them by MEC Xaba.

A Platinum certificate and the Mdu memorial trophy was awarded to Scelo Mpheshwa for his exceptional service and for showing the most promise during his dairy apprenticeship.

Gold certificates were awarded to apprentices, who upon returning from overseas placements, have since specialised and shown excellence in their chosen fields.

Green certificates were awarded to those who are in their first two years of service, have stood out in the workplace and who show unlimited potential.

Kwanalu’s CEO, Sandy La Marque said that the organisation was exceptionally pleased with the way in which its members had stepped up to the plate by getting actively involved in initiatives such as the Future Farmers initiative.

‘The goodwill contribution, display of mentorship and leading example by farmers is truly an inspiration for fellow farmers.

‘Listening to the stories told by the young people today, it is humbling and at the same time awe-inspiring.

‘A good work ethic, diligence and an unfettered commitment to the task at hand will result in awesome opportunities and unique possibilities, Kwanalu is proud to be a part of the Future Farmers program,’ said La Marque.