LIMPOPO – The 24-year-old Phodzo Tshikosi from Tshavhalovhedzi village in Nzhelele has refused to let challenges stand in the way of his dream of producing honey and building a successful beekeeping business.

Building a business around bees

Tshikosi’s passion for entrepreneurship started several years ago when he assisted his uncle, a beekeeper, with caring for bees and harvesting honey. Inspired by the experience, he pursued formal training in beekeeping through Alison, where he obtained a certificate that equipped him with the skills to manage beehives and market honey products.

Today, Tshikosi not only produces and sells honey but also mentors aspiring beekeepers and teachers locals about the importance of bees.

“I enjoy working with bees and interacting with clients from different parts of the world. Beekeeping is not only about producing honey. I also enjoy educating people about bees and helping them understand their importance and how to live safely alongside them.”

His company also conducts awareness campaigns at schools, encouraging young people to consider beekeeping as a career and business opportunity.

“I enjoy being around bees. It is a wonderful experience because bees are loyal to one another and work together to protect their queen. I also enjoy harvesting and processing honey. Every batch has its own unique taste and aroma,” he said.

From learner to beekeeper

Tshikosi explained that his journey into beekeeping started in 2014 when one of his uncles, who was a respected beekeeper, no longer had enough time to focus on his beehives.

“He came home and introduced the idea to me because he believed I was capable of taking on the responsibility.

“I saw it as an opportunity rather than something to fear. I never allowed the thought of being afraid of bees to stop me,” he said.

The importance of bees

Bees, he said, play a vital role in food production through pollination, making them essential to agriculture and human survival.

“Most people do not realise how important bees are. Without them, food production would be severely affected. Unfortunately, harmful farming practices and excessive pesticide use continue to threaten bee populations,” he said.

Taking risks and embracing opportunity

He believes that success requires courage and a willingness to take risks.

“I immediately changed my mindset because when you are surrounded by positive influences, you begin to think positively. I grew up believing that everything in life has both advantages and disadvantages, and that if you do not take risks, tomorrow will be the same as yesterday.

“I did not want that kind of life for myself. I knew that no one would come and lift me from where I was to the top. I had to do something for myself. That is when I started attending online beekeeping courses. I worked hard, completed my training and received a certificate that allows me to work professionally with bees.

“Compliance and continuous learning are important in everything we do,” he concluded.