An open and inclusive dialogue on transformation in agriculture. This is what Shandini Naidoo, founder of AvoPort, is expecting at the upcoming Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba 2023..
Naidoo, who is also the youngest board member of the National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) is part of the exciting line-up of speakers due to share practical, inspiring and challenging perspectives at the Indaba, on 14 and 15 June at the FNB Stadium in Soweto, Johannesburg.
The event, presented by Food For Mzansi and John Deere, will feature the country’s finest young farmers and agripreneurs, top exhibitors and speakers.
Organisers of the event say they are at about 50% capacity and interested parties can still secure their spots to get a front-row seat to a marketplace of opportunities in South African farming and agro-processing.
Among the A-list speakers confirmed for the upcoming Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba is Naidoo.
Naidoo has taken the agricultural space by storm with AvoPort and her work in providing training to farmers and agripreneurs. If you know her, you’d know that she does not mince her words around transformation as she believes there is a great need for African solutions for African farmers.
Speakers excited about transformation talks
“We are used to having discussions like this in an exclusive and closed session, where it is only the top leaders in both public and private sectors [present]. We need to have discussions on this topic from top to bottom,” Naidoo says.
While many practical solutions to transform the sector exist, a one-size-fits all-approach won’t cut it, she believes. This is because transformation targets for different sub-sectors should vary.
“Even myself, when I need to bring changes, I speak to my farmers on what they would like to see change, and what they want to see happening.
“It cannot always be policymakers locked up in the boardroom… We need such events, like the Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba, where everyone can be around the table engaging,” she added.
Get yourself a ticket
You can still grab indaba tickets before they’re gone by clicking this link. For just R1 200 (including VAT) for two days, including lunch and a cocktail function on the evening of 14 June, you’ll be investing in yourself and your farming future.
The Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba is designed for young farmers and agripreneurs looking to extend their supply chains, find possible partners and funders, and plug into new markets and value chains.
INDABA TICKETS: Click here to book your seat at a discounted rate
What your ticket gets you
We know that being a young farmer can be tough, but investing in yourself is essential. That is why we’ve not only slashed the ticket price but also jam-packed the freebies and value you’ll receive at the event.
Not only do you get a front-row seat to opportunities, but you will also spend time with funding decision-makers – from banks to investors – and get to network with the best of the best that can help your business scale through partnerships and fresh thinking.
At the Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba, you will get to learn about the latest trends, technologies, and practices that will take your agricultural business to the next level.
You’ll also have the opportunity to network with funding organisations, over 30 exhibitors and other young farmers and agripreneurs, expanding your industry knowledge and building valuable connections.
Our talks and masterclasses will be led by some of the industry’s most influential figures, covering everything from agricultural insurance to market access. You’ll be able to learn from experienced professionals and gain insights that can help you succeed in the industry.
Daily lunches and coffee-break refreshments? Check. Three free drinks and snacks at the welcome cocktail function? We’ve got you covered. Plus, you will get access to all exhibitions, talks, and masterclasses – all included in your ticket price!
Need accommodation at a discounted price?
Experience comfort and convenience during your visit to the Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba at The Reef Hotel in Johannesburg. As an attendee of the indaba, you can take advantage of the special discounted rates by using the reference code “FFM 001” when making your booking.
The hotel is just a stone’s throw away from the FNB Stadium in Soweto, which is the official venue for the indaba. You won’t have to worry about rushing to and from the event, as the stadium is a mere 10-kilometre drive away.
The Reef Hotel offers a range of room options to suit your needs, including single rooms starting from just R900 for room only and R1 050 for bed and breakfast, and double rooms starting from R1 100 for room only and R1 400 for bed and breakfast. All of the rooms are comfortable and well-equipped to ensure that you have a relaxing stay.
READ NEXT: Grab indaba tickets before they’re gone!
Sign up for Mzansi Today: Your daily take on the news and happenings from the agriculture value chain.