Judy Stuart's journey into the world of agriculture and her subsequent creation of Future Farmers is an inspiring tale of resilience, passion, and a commitment to empowering the next generation. Born with the "farming gene," Judy faced obstacles in accessing agricultural education due to societal norms and challenges faced by aspiring female farmers. Her struggles fueled a desire to make a difference in the lives of young individuals with a similar passion for farming.

As Judy recounted her experiences, she highlighted the hardships faced by rural youth in South Africa – limited access to education, financial constraints, and a lack of opportunities upon graduation. Witnessing this, Judy felt compelled to bridge the gap between passionate young individuals and the farming sector. This gave birth to Future Farmers, an initiative aimed at connecting aspiring farmers with experienced mentors and creating a platform for hands-on learning.

The heart of Future Farmers lies in its unique approach. Rather than actively recruiting from schools and colleges, Judy encourages young people to find them. This not only reflects a commitment to self-motivation but also ensures that those who join the program genuinely possess the passion and drive to make a difference in the agricultural landscape.

The programs offered by Future Farmers, such as the Work Integrated Learning Program, provide a practical and immersive experience for participants. By combining earning and learning on the farm, individuals start from the bottom, working alongside professionals. This approach allows them to gain invaluable skills, ask questions, and truly understand the intricacies of farming in a real-world setting.

‘Success in farming goes beyond technical know-how’

The Future Ready program focuses on supporting participants in their personal and professional development. Assignments covering various aspects of farm life, including budgeting, equip these future farmers with essential skills beyond the agricultural field. Future Farmers recognises that success in farming goes beyond technical know-how; it requires a holistic understanding of business, financial management, and problem-solving.

One aspect of Future Farmers is its inclusivity. Whether someone is starting from the bottom or seeking managerial positions, the program is designed to match individuals with farmers who align with their goals and aspirations. Future Farmers acts as a bridge, connecting enthusiastic individuals with opportunities that might have otherwise been out of reach.

For existing farmers with young employees, Future Farmers offers a collaborative opportunity. By reaching out to the program, farmers can implement the learning and support structure for their employees, ensuring they receive not just a job but a pathway to a future in agriculture.

‘It's about cultivating dreams’

Judy's vision has grown from helping three young boys to creating a movement that empowers and transforms the lives of aspiring farmers. Future Farmers is not just about agriculture; it's about cultivating dreams, fostering growth, and sowing the seeds of a brighter future for the agricultural sector in South Africa.

OFM News/Robyn Schutte dg