The fourth graduation ceremony of the GrowSA Learnership Programme marked a momentous occasion, celebrating the achievements of a dedicated group of individuals who have completed their journey of learning, mentorship, and skill development. This milestone not only honours their hard work but also highlights the impact of GrowSA in equipping changemakers within South Africa’s grassroots green economy.
GrowSA, a collaborative initiative with partners including the SA Urban Food & Farming Trust, the Oranjezicht City Farm Market, Den Anker Restaurant, EcoBrick Exchange, and Margolite Williams, is committed to unlocking human potential by supporting catalytic individuals and projects. Through training, education, and mentorship, GrowSA strengthens gardens, kitchens, hubs, and markets—building connections that create a more sustainable and inclusive food system.
Over the past six months, GrowSA has mentored participants working in community kitchens and food gardens, providing them with the tools and knowledge to expand their impact. The graduation ceremony was both a celebration of their perseverance and dedication and an opportunity to reflect on the tangible changes they have made within their communities.
Siyamthanda Martin, who runs a soup kitchen in Mfuleni that serves meals to over 500 people—primarily youth and individuals with disabilities—shared how GrowSA has transformed his approach to food security.
“I gained a lot of knowledge. I didn’t know how to grow vegetables or about organic farming, but through my experience at GrowSA, I can now grow organic vegetables that can be used in the soup kitchen to feed my community. Thank you to GrowSA. There were many challenges, but I never gave up.”
The event brought together mentors, partners, and supporters, all celebrating the success of this cohort of graduates. Their journeys highlight the power of collaboration and the importance of investing in grassroots initiatives that create real and lasting change. Whether through urban farming, sustainable food production, or strengthening local food economies, each graduate has taken significant strides towards a future where food security and ecological responsibility go hand in hand.
Luyanda Mapeyi, a community gardener known for his innovative approach to food accessibility, also reflected on his experience with GrowSA. Luyanda, who won the Ubuntu Award for his contributions to his community, runs a unique initiative where people without money can receive a bag of vegetables in exchange for recyclable cans. He then sells the cans and reinvests the money into his garden.
“I have been a farmer for years, but GrowSA introduced me to the basics of growing food. I learned from my grandfather, but I never had any formal training. This programme has filled that gap, and I plan to take what I am doing to another level.”
Speaking at the event, GrowSA Project Manager Ian Dommisse commended the graduates for their commitment and resilience. He emphasised the programme’s role in fostering leadership and sustainable food systems, ensuring that more people have access to fresh, nutritious food while supporting livelihoods in the green economy.
“A big part of the programme is to build agency and confidence in each of the participants. Rather than simply giving them physical gardening tools at the end, the real goal is for them to realise that they have internal resources they can use. The graduation is something they look forward to from the beginning, and we put in a great deal of effort to make it special—a moment where graduates, past alumni, and partners come together to celebrate.”
As the graduates step forward into the next phase of their journeys, they carry with them the skills, knowledge, and networks built during their time with GrowSA. Their stories serve as inspiration for future participants and a testament to the power of investing in people who are driving change from the ground up.
SA Urban Food & Farming Trust 