Thembisa learner pursues farming dream from a young age

At just 12 years old, Phenyo Rapura is already cultivating a passion for agriculture and proving that age is no barrier when it comes to pursuing a dream.

The Chess Madibatlou Middle School Grade Seven learner has spent the past three years developing his farming skills, growing vegetables in his own garden and raising chickens as part of his agricultural journey.

Rapura said his love for farming began in 2023 when he was inspired by his grandmother, who also owns a farm.

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“I became passionate about agriculture in 2023 when I was nine years old. My journey started in Limpopo, where I was exposed to good-quality soil and farming. When I returned to Thembisa, I realised the soil conditions were different, so I started using manure to improve the soil,” he said.

The young farmer said he would appreciate support from companies or agricultural organisations that could help him expand his knowledge and access better resources.

“I would be grateful to receive sponsorship for my farming journey, especially assistance with richer soil and a bigger farming space around Gauteng,” he said.

Rapura’s favourite crop to grow is spinach, which he has planted every year since starting his agricultural journey.

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“Spinach is my favourite vegetable. I enjoy watching it grow because of the leaves that become visible as it develops. If my garden could complain about something, it would probably be the need for irrigation because of the hot weather conditions in Gauteng,” he said.

Balancing school and farming has become part of daily life for Rapura, who hopes to continue his studies in agricultural science and one day establish multiple farms that can supply food locally and internationally.

He credits his grandmother, parents and family for supporting his passion.

“My grandmother has been my biggest supporter because she also owns a farm. My mother and father have supported me since I started this journey. They were amazed by my determination and passion for agriculture and livestock farming,” he said.

Rapura encouraged other young people who want to explore farming not to give up on their dreams.

“I would tell anyone who wants to start farming to never give up and never stop believing in their dreams. Everything is possible if you are determined and passionate about what you want to achieve,” he said.

One of his proudest achievements was completing a one-hectare farm by hand, where he later produced crops including watermelons, maize, sugar cane, beans, spinach and peanuts.