Women in agriculture are making their mark across Mzansi, and Pamella Goldstone from KwaZulu-Natal is a shining example. She only started growing fresh produce; however, she soon saw a way to expand by agro-processing some of her harvest into herbs, spices, and sauces.
Goldstone isn’t just farming; she’s growing her business with purpose, proving that dedication and vision can transform a small farm into something much bigger.
She co-founded A-Myl Fresh, a cooperative in Chatsworth, KwaZulu-Natal, in 2021 in response to a food crisis at a local orphanage. The cooperative began with fresh produce such as spinach, cabbage, mushrooms, carrots, onions, lettuce, and peppers.
A-Myl Fresh gained recognition as a prize-winning cooperative under the Metropolitan Momentum Women in Farming Programme, where Goldstone was a prominent and driving member. This achievement cemented her reputation as a committed advocate for women in agriculture and a leader in collective farming initiatives.
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Charting a new course
In 2023, Goldstone founded Isibani Entity with a bold vision: to revolutionise food production through organic and sustainable farming while promoting food security in both rural and urban communities.
“For me, being in a co-op wasn’t working. All the ideas I had felt like they were slowly dying because I wasn’t really fulfilling my vision and dream,” she says.
“There were so many limits with the co-op, so I decided to venture out and registered an entity, Isibani Entity, which is currently focusing on fresh produce and agro-processing,” Goldstone explains.
Isibani has developed organic and sustainable farming methods for nutrient-rich produce. They also promote ethical livestock management.
“Now I get to build and drive my vision and dream my way, and allow new things to grow.”
Business with meaning
Isibani operates on a leased half-hectare of land in Marianhill, Savannah Park, KwaZulu-Natal, where they grow spinach, green peppers, and herbs such as mint, parsley, and thyme. The business began operating formally towards the end of 2024.
Goldstone’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. In June 2024, she was recognised by the Zenzele Mbokodo Women Awards, winning the title of Best Female Farmer.
“Most of my work can be traced back to the co-op days,” she says.
Under Isibani, Goldstone launched a product line named Maurin’s, after her late mother. The range includes a mix of herbs, spices, and sauces, from basil, rosemary, and mixed herbs to chilli flakes, fish spice, veggie seasoning, smoked barbecue, and chicken spice.
“We do grow fresh herbs, but sun drying takes a bit of time. Due to limited resources, such as not having a drying room yet, we are currently sourcing dried herbs elsewhere, but we are working towards doing that ourselves.”
The team plans to expand the line to include hibiscus tea and nutrient-rich seeds such as pumpkin, chia, flax, and sunflower. “I’ve done some research, and I want Isibani to meet the community’s demand,” she explains.
The business follows eco-friendly practices, focusing on water conservation through efficient irrigation, organic farming that preserves soil fertility and biodiversity, and community mentorship that uplifts small-scale farmers and inspires women to pursue careers in agriculture.
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Nurturing a sustainable vision
Goldstone’s long-term vision is to see Isibani owning its land and growing into a self-sustaining agricultural enterprise.
She also wants Maurin’s herbs and spices to become a household name across Mzansi and beyond. “I hope to build a successful agribusiness that reflects quality and meets demand,” she says.
Goldstone shares five elements for building a successful business:
- Move at your own pace and focus on personal growth.
- Study and understand your products and their health benefits.
- Stay motivated by the story behind your products and the goal of winning.
- Believe in your dream and work daily to make it a reality.
- Learn, grow, stay authentic, and embrace networking, partnerships, and collaborations.
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