In the heart of Langa, Sibulele Plaatjie is redefining what farming looks like for young women in her community.
Raised in a single-parent household in Langa, Sibu knew she needed a way to generate income, and she wanted to do it in a way that aligned with her desire to live healthier. Growing her own food became both a practical solution and a personal commitment. Hydroponic gardening, in particular, offered a smart, space-efficient way to do both.
Her inspiration came from Akhona Gxuluwe, farm manager at Kenilworth Rooftop Farm, where she volunteered and saw firsthand that her vision was possible. That experience shifted farming from an idea to a real pathway. Today, lettuce is her focus, a reliable, year-round crop that thrives in hydroponic systems. At home, she searches online for opportunities and funding. In the garden, she maintains her system by hand and learns constantly through conversations with fellow growers.
Her journey to the Langa Agrihub began with curiosity. She walked past a hydroponic system she admired, stepped inside, and kept coming back until she connected with Lwando and learned about the Agrihub. She has been part of it ever since.
For her, it’s a space of shared learning and steady growth.Through the Agrihub’s network and workshops, including agro-processing training where she learned to make jam, chutney and dried fruit, Sibu is expanding her skills beyond production and thinking about value addition. Resources, funding and space remain challenges.
But when she believes in something, she goes after it and trusts she will figure it out along the way. As one of the youngest members of the Agrihub, Sibu is breaking stereotypes and paving the way for other young women in agriculture. Her goal is clear: formal training, stronger market access, scaling her production, and building a self-sustaining farming business.
Her impact is not only in what she grows, but in what she represents – possibility.
SA Urban Food & Farming Trust 