Tamsin Mzozoyana, lead consultant and founder of Krystal Consulting, says that women have the potential to become effective and active participants in the agricultural industry; all they need to do is occupy space. She is also a firm believer that black farmers change the narrative in South Africa.
Mzozonyana herself is well on her way to breaking the glass ceiling in Mzansi’s agricultural industry. In this episode of Farmer’s Inside Track, she discusses more where her exciting journey began, as well as some advice for new farmers on how to be successful in their endeavours.
Serving the voiceless
It is unusual for the people of Ceres to not be curious about where their food comes from and what it’s like to work the land as a farmer, says Mzozonyana. As a result of Ceres’s dominant position in the farming industry, you will almost certainly come across food products made from a variety of crops both when you enter and when you exit the region.
She says the allure of rural life and the fact that people of colour are underrepresented in the agricultural sector, were primary factors in her decision to pursue a career in agriculture.
“We were never allowed to own the land, that our forefathers and we worked on. We were always known as the people that worked on the land.”
She wanted to change the narrative and provide a platform for black farmers to begin having a voice in this industry.
Mzozoyana explains that she has always wanted to see black farmers as exporters in the agricultural industry, rather than just backyard farmers. She says this is one of the primary reasons behind Krystal Consulting.
Facing challenges in the farming business
Mzozoyana started in the poultry business before branching out into Krystal consulting, and there were times when she considered giving it all up.
“I was at a point in my career when I was like; I cannot do this anymore. It’s great, but I think I need to move on.”
Mzozoyana also makes the following observations:
- You need to consult with people who know the business.
- It would help if you had a plan written down.
- Pick up the pieces after failing, it is worth it.
Want to know more? Listen to the full episode of Farmer’s Inside Track.
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Option 3: Click here to listen on Google Podcast.
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