Podcast: Bouncing back from bankruptcy

Whernit Dirks transitioned from fourth-generation farm labourer to farm owner, but a recent knock meant he had to bounce back from bankruptcy. In this edition of Farmer’s Inside Track, he talks more about his farming journey and struggles he has faced and advice on how to navigate as a new-era farmer in Mzansi.

Dirks says he went bankrupt in 2019. It is natural for some people to go while others remain, and this is a part of the process of developing while farming. When times are tough for you, as they were for him when he filed for bankruptcy, one person from among the many in your network will come to your rescue.

Putting in the time and effort usually pays off

Dirks was able to advance his career in the field by focusing on his strengths. He says he would actively seek employment and never expects favours to be bestowed upon him for no cost. That one must work for one’s gains, was a principle he never questioned.

He began farming in 2005 and immediately fell in love with the lifestyle as part of the fifth generation, living and working on the farm.

It takes courage to trust others

According to Dirks, establishing trust is not an easy task to complete, not only in the agricultural sector but also in life in general. He continues by saying it can be challenging to trust others with your narrative because of its personal nature.

He believes that it is going to be more challenging for you to include them in your everyday plans.

“It is everyone’s responsibility to determine which people they can assist in your challenging situation,” he says.