The Western Cape Prestige Agri-worker of the Year Awards, which took place at Rhebokskloof outside Paarl, recently celebrated workers’ hard work and dedication in agriculture, especially in primary production. Workers were honoured for going the extra mile in their line of duty.
Lindie-Alet van Staden from L’Ormarins Wine Estate, Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands, was named the Western Cape Prestige Agri-worker of the Year 2024.
Western Cape minister of agriculture, economic development and tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, praised her leadership and welcomed her potential contributions to the Western Cape Prestige Agri-workers Forum.
“I look forward to her inauguration as a Western Cape Prestige Agri-workers Forum member. Given her leadership abilities and skill set, she will make a valuable contribution to raising the concerns of agri-workers in the province.
“She will serve as a valued member of the forum, a body that advises the Western Cape ministry of agriculture on matters that impact the lives of agri-workers,” Meyer said.
Honouring the best
The competition, which recognises the crucial role agri-workers play in growing the economy and ensuring food security, has seen a significant increase in participation, from 36 entries in 2002 to an impressive 1233 in 2024.
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Participants from diverse backgrounds and 15 regions across the Western Cape competed in 11 categories, showcasing the competition’s inclusivity.
On accepting her award as the overall winner, Van Staden, a garden and olive orchard manager at L’Ormarins Estate in Franschhoek, expressed her gratitude and commitment to her job.
“Every day, I am motivated by my incredible team and the opportunity to make a difference in my colleagues’ lives. Winning this award reaffirms my commitment to pursuing excellence and helping to drive agriculture’s future in our community. Together, we are achieving our goals and building a sustainable future,” she said.
Meanwhile, the head of the department, Dr Mogale Sebopetsa, said the Western Cape Prestige Agri-worker Awards is not only about individual recognition, it is also aimed at enhancing the image and socio-economic conditions of agri-workers and their families.
“This competition offers agri-workers new skills, knowledge, and opportunities for career growth, broadening their understanding of the agricultural sector and inspiring them to reach new heights,” he said.
Western Cape premier Alan Winde praised all the Western Cape’s agri-workers for their contribution to the sector and the economy of the province.
“Your contribution and dedication to our economy are invaluable, and we are deeply grateful for all you do in assuring and enhancing our province’s food security while also working very hard to boost our economic growth,” Winde said.
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