Thandiswa Ndlovu

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.

• Higher National Diploma in Electrical Engineering, Umgungundlovu FET College
• Further training completed in agricultural business and rural development, Shukela Training Centre – hosted by Glehdlow
• Short courses completed in Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Farming through local mentorship and skills development programmes

• Launched Bongza Farming despite limited resources
• Awarded a Seedcane Plantation Tender in the North Coast by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, to lead a 200 hectare project valued at R10 million
• Leading a farming business as a young woman in a rural village brought many challenges, but women in the community were mobilised and additional small grants secured to kickstart the project

• My mother — inspired by her and other women in the village who turned survival into innovation. Their silent strength and wisdom reinforced the belief that leadership does not always wear suits; sometimes, it wears gumboots and overalls
• Dr Vuyokazi Mahlati – a champion of rural development and women’s economic inclusion