Actress Asavela Mqokiyana’s love for farming, instilled by her grandmother, has blossomed into a fulfilling business that combines her passion for sustainability and community.
She shares with Vutivi News how her journey has been a testament to the power of passion and purpose, showcasing the impact one person can have on their community and the environment.
Mqokiyana grows cabbage, mielies and potatoes using cow manure from local kraals instead of buying fertilizer.
She explains that approach not only promotes healthy growth, but also allows her to give back to the community by helping residents clean out their kraals.
“I’ve used it as therapy to unwind from the demands of the entertainment space, and over time, it evolved into a fulfilling business,” she says.
Her farming journey has taught her patience and helped her connect with her roots. She loves the stories shared by the elderly and wise women while working in the fields, which brings her happiness and reminds her of her childhood.
“The sense of community and the way they’ve shaped me into the woman I am today is truly invaluable,” she adds.
Mqokiyana encourages others to pursue a career in agriculture.
“I’d say to any woman interested in farming: go for it! There’s so much to learn and it’s not only a great way to access organic food, but there’s also a huge market demand for healthy, organic products.”
She also suggests implementing farming in schools, especially in disadvantaged communities, to teach students about sustainable crops and food production.
Mqokiyana plans on getting more land and equipment to modernise her farm in Bizana in the Eastern Cape.
“For now, I’d love to acquire more land and equipment to streamline our farming process. Many of my long-time employees are aging and I’d like to ease their workload by introducing machinery, allowing them to focus on crop management and packaging,” she says.
With a focus on sustainability and community, her farming journey is a shining example of the impact one person can have.
“This isn’t just about me, it’s also about the community and lessons that I hope to instill in the future of young farmers.
“I hope that my dedication to eco-friendly practices and community development will serve as an inspiration to many, demonstrating the potential for sustainable agriculture to empower individuals and communities,” she adds.
Mqokiyana’s story highlights the importance of following one’s passion and purpose, even in unexpected ways.
From acting to farming, she has found a sense of fulfillment and joy in working with the land and her community.
