By: Tumelo Lebambo
At just 24 years old, Emmanuel Maphosa is proof that farming is not only for the older generation, but it is a space where young people can build wealth, independence and purpose.
The Bushbuckridge-based farmer officially started his farming business in November 2024, but his passion began when he was only eight years old. Inspired by his mother, who used to do backyard gardening, Emmanuel started planting vegetables at a young age and never looked back.
Today, he runs Rise N Produce Farm (Pty) Ltd, where he specializes in:PoultryPiggeryFresh green produce including cabbage, spinach, tomatoes and peppersFor Emmanuel, farming is more than business, it is a calling.“I love seeing animals grow healthy and crops reaching harvest stage.
That process gives me peace and purpose,” he says.Although he does not yet have a formal qualification, he is currently gaining practical agricultural experience linked to UKZN, focusing on garden marketing and Agro-processing. He strongly believes that knowledge is key.
His advice to other young people is “Start where you are, with the little that you have. Industrialisation will find you on the way. Funding will find you on the way. But make sure you get knowledge ,you cannot farm without skill.”As youth unemployment continues to challenge many communities, Emmanuel is showing that agriculture remains a powerful tool for economic freedom and food security.
📞 Contact: 082 732 0046🏢 Rise N Produce Farm (Pty) Ltd📍 Bushbuckridge, MpumalangaFrom a small backyard garden to a registered farming company, Emmanuel Maphosa is not just growing crops, he is growing a legacy.