At U Can Grow, we believe that agriculture is not just about farming; it’s about fostering sustainable change in communities, nurturing the land, and inspiring individuals to become stewards of the environment. One of the integral members of our team who embodies this philosophy is Sifiso Ngqoleka, a dedicated individual hailing from the Eastern Cape but making a significant impact in Marikana.

Sifiso’s journey with U Can Grow is a testament to the transformative power of agriculture and community engagement. Born and raised in Cape Town, Sifiso embarked on his path of agricultural enlightenment during his student days, studying multicultural senses and quickly gaining a knack for capturing the essence of agriculture. However, it was the fortuitous encounter with his mentor, Nigel Rudling, that set Sifiso on his remarkable journey of growth and contribution.

Before joining the U Can Grow family, Sifiso served as a manager at an orphanage called Vulamasango. He was deeply involved in ground and garden maintenance, overseeing the production, and ensuring the garden not only sustained itself but also reached wider markets. His efforts were geared toward obtaining the PGS certification, which would enable the garden to sell its produce to larger markets. Now, as a Packshed manager at U Can Grow, Sifiso plays a pivotal role in our mission to empower subsistence and small-scale farmers. His primary responsibility involves distributing seedlings to 1000 households, enabling them to start their own backyard gardens for both personal consumption and income generation. But his role doesn’t stop there; Sifiso goes above and beyond by registering these farmers on our U Can Grow app, where he closely monitors their progress, offers guidance on organic farming techniques, and fosters a strong sense of community.

Organic farming is at the heart of U Can Grow’s philosophy, and Sifiso is a passionate advocate for this sustainable approach. He educates farmers on the importance of using natural resources from their surroundings, avoiding harmful chemicals, and creating a regenerative agricultural ecosystem that benefits both humans and the environment. Sifiso’s experience at U Can Grow has been nothing short of transformative. He describes it as the opportunity he had been waiting for, a chance to uplift and empower communities. His passion for community development was kindled during his time at the orphanage, and it has now found a home at U Can Grow. He sees agriculture as a powerful means of changing mindsets, dispelling the notion that farming is only for the uneducated or involves back-breaking labour.

In a world where agriculture is the emerging future, Sifiso Ngqoleka stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration. He reminds us that agriculture is not just about cultivating crops; it’s about cultivating communities, fostering sustainability, and nurturing a brighter tomorrow. We salute Sifiso for his unwavering dedication and commitment to making a difference, one seedling at a time. Thank you, Sifiso, for being an integral part of U Can Grow’s journey towards a more sustainable and prosperous future.