Thandiswa Ndlovu, 22, is the executive director of Bongza Farming & Engineering. Her company focuses on sugarcane harvesting and extraction, working with women-led farming groups to promote sustainable practices, skills development and economic inclusion. Despite limited resources, Thandiswa’s determination saw Bongza Farming awarded a 200 hectare seedcane plantation tender by the department of agriculture and rural development, a project valued at R10 million. Under her leadership, Bongza Farming not only produces agricultural outputs but also creates jobs, strengthens local food systems, and restores dignity for women in her community. Thandiswa’s academic journey took her from Stanger Manor Secondary to a qualification in electrical engineering. She continues to pursue agricultural business training through the Shukela Training Centre and other mentorship programmes focused on entrepreneurship and sustainable farming. Through informal mentorship, food gardening projects and partnerships such as that with The LS Foundation, she uplifts women, builds economic resilience and addresses food insecurity in rural households.
I deeply admire women such as Dr Vuyokazi Mahlati, who championed rural development and women’s economic inclusion. I have also been inspired by my own mother and other women in my village who turned survival into innovation. Their silent strength and wisdom pushed me to believe that leadership does not always wear suits — sometimes, it wears gumboots and overalls.