Matlhane Thabiso Maphoto

Matlhane Thabiso Maphoto grew up in Tzaneen and was inspired by his father, a farmer whose mantra, “farming is the future,” became Matlhane’s guiding principle. At 22, he is the chief executive of Agricshare Africa, an organisation using digital tools to bridge gaps in the agricultural sector. A BCom accounting graduate from the University of Johannesburg and having done courses in artificial intelligence, sustainable development and investment, he blends financial acumen with farming. He manages a two-hectare farm with 30 cattle and runs an Instagram platform that connects smallholder farmers with livestock sales, bursaries and agricultural opportunities. His work empowers farmers by promoting sustainable farming, financial literacy and climate-smart practices. Matlhane also mentors youth in Tzaneen and Ga-Maphoto, running agricultural workshops and supporting access to resources such as drought-resistant seeds and irrigation. He is also an advocate for policy reforms that benefit young and marginalised farmers, including land access, agri-financing and rural connectivity. He credits his father and global leaders such as Dr Agnes Kalibata for inspiring his mission to transform African agriculture.

• Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting, University of Johannesburg
• Various short learning programmes: Investment Foundations, CFA Institute, Introduction to the Sustainable Development Goals, University of Johannesburg, Financial Literacy: Be Money Wise, University of Johannesburg, McKinsey Forward Programme, McKinsey & Company, African Insights (15 credits, NQF Level 5), University of Johannesburg, Building Blocks of Information Literacy, University of Johannesburg and Artificial Intelligence in the 4IR (short learning programme), University of Johannesburg

• Being chief executive of Agricshare Africa at 22 – led a growing agricultural organisation focused on innovation, sustainability and community empowerment
• Managed a 2-hectare farm in Ga-Maphoto, Limpopo –  oversaw a herd of 30 cows — becoming the first in the community to do so — blending agricultural practice with accounting acumen
• Launched the Instagram platform agricshare.africa – created a national digital resource for South African farmers, connecting them through content on: farming opportunities, auctions, livestock sales, agri funding and bursaries, the platform has connected farmers and stakeholders, fostering collaboration and growth
• Developed educational initiatives – focusing on farming practices, livestock, crops and promoting agricultural learnerships and graduate opportunities

• Deep admiration goes to my father, whose passion for agriculture and belief that “farming is the future” have shaped this journey. Growing up in Ga-Maphoto, Bochum, he instilled a deep respect for the land through hands-on lessons on the farm and late-night discussions over Farmer’s Weekly. His innovative techniques and dedication taught resilience, problem-solving and sustainable practices.
• Dr Agnes Kalibata, whose work in advancing African agriculture encourages systemic thinking and advocacy for smallholder farmers.

These role models have fuelled a passion for agriculture, innovation and community development, guiding a mission to transform South Africa’s agricultural sector.