Theewaterskloof Farm, nestled in the heart of Villiersdorp in the Western Cape, has been Davon Johnson’s entire world since his earliest memories. The farm shaped his upbringing. From childhood, he saw apple trees grow here, and today, as a farmworker, he helps bring in their harvest.
“I grew up on the farm and have seen from a young age how trees are planted, how they grow, how they are pruned, and how apples are picked from the trees.
“Many people do not have the opportunity to see this happen. So, it is a great honour for me to work in agriculture,” he says with a smile.
However, this 20-year-old is full of both ambition and talent.
“I am currently a general worker on the farm but my dream is to be a production assistant. I am working towards achieving that,” he tells Food For Mzansi.
While agriculture has always played an important part in his life, hip-hop is the soundtrack of his life. In his quiet moments after work, Johnson writes his own songs, drawing inspiration from his idol, Travis Scott.
Johnson is currently participating in the Agri’s Got Talent competition, a prestigious platform that gives South African farmworkers the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase their talents on a national stage and unlock incredible opportunities.
Embracing opportunities in music
As a participant in the show, Johnson looks forward to learning more about the music industry and meeting new people who share his passion.
One afternoon, he found himself scrolling through Facebook – just passing time – when he first saw the advertisement for Agri’s Got Talent. At first, he didn’t give it much thought.
“The next day, I saw it again on Facebook and decided to fill out the application, not thinking that I would actually get in.” A few weeks later, he learned that he had made it into the top ten.
“Wow. I was very surprised. How is this possible? To be in the top ten when people from all over the country have entered?” he asked himself in disbelief.
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From apple trees to stage lights
Despite being reserved by nature, he enjoys connecting with others and looks forward to sharing his talent on the big stage soon.
Whether through his work on the farm or the music that pulses through his soul, his journey had only just begun. He knew that whether he was tending to the apple trees or producing his own songs, both dreams were blossoming, nurtured by the same steady dedication and love he had for the life he was building.
In the orchards of Theewaterskloof and the notes of his music, Davon Johnson’s story was one of growth – of trees, of talent, and of a dream that is slowly but surely becoming a reality.
Johnson will take the stage to perform in front of judges, aiming to win the Agri’s Got Talent 2024 title. You’re invited to come and cheer him on at the big gala final, happening at Dawn Mountains in Simondium on Friday, 11 October 2024. Tickets for the event are available via Computicket. Book your ticket here.
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