Learners sow the seeds to success during farming challenge

After months of hard work and dedication, the top young urban farmers of Clearwater Mall’s Cangro Challenge have been announced.

This groundbreaking initiative has inspired learners to grow their own food and adopt eco-friendly practices.

The Cangro Challenge is a great example of how local companies and communities can work together. Over three months, 450 children from surrounding schools competed by growing upside-down tomato plants.

Juan Hartzenberg of Laerskool Muldersdrif won the title of Cangro Young Urban Farmer of the Year in the final battle, which was held at the mall.

Ava Barnard, also from Muldersdrif, and Emerald Phiri from Vuleka St Michael’s took second and third place, respectively. These young trailblazers were honoured for their dedication to sustainability, inventiveness, and tenacity, in addition to their ability to cultivate flourishing plants.

Each winner received gift cards as prizes, and their teachers received recognition for their assistance and guidance. At participating schools, the challenge started in October with a Planting Day where learners were given grow kits and started caring for their plants. They participated in instructional activities that enhanced their Natural Science curriculum for the following few months.

The Wits Centre for Entrepreneurial Thinking and the Department of Education have partnered to sponsor the Cangro Challenge, which has effectively taught learners about urban farming, recycling, and environmental responsibility. Participants gained useful life skills through practical experience that they may use outside of the classroom.

“The Cangro Challenge is about developing future leaders who understand the value of sustainability. We are proud of each learner who participated,” said Prianka Singh Rogers, marketing manager at Clearwater Mall, who commended the participants.