Investing in local communities remains at the heart of Tongaat Hulett’s mission to grow a sweet future. We are proud of how small-scale farmers like Mr. Mzimela and the women of the Sizama Ukuyaphambili Co-Operative from Macekane, Empangeni Kwa Zulu-Natal have used our support to grow their food security project, provide for their families and uplift their communities. In our new documentary, they share their journeys and what’s possible when people are empowered to thrive.
Mr Mzimela
Mr. Mzimela is an elderly man who carries a lifetime of farming wisdom, passed down from his parents. With the help of his sister and the local chief who granted him a piece of land, he was able to begin growing his own crop. As a father of seven, he soon realised the need to expand his sugarcane farm to better support his family. With support from Huletts, he purchased a tractor and diversified his crops. In our documentary, he shares how this has helped him care for his family, build a lasting legacy and uplift others in his community.
The Women of Sizama Ukuyaphambili Co-Operative
A group of strong and determined women from Sizama Ukuyaphambili Co-Operative are working together to uplift their community. Their gardens don’t just grow fresh fruits and vegetables, they help create jobs, help feed their community and show young people that farming can be a great way to build a better future.
Their goal is simple but powerful – to grow, and see their produce on the shelves of retail stores. With Huletts stepping in to provide new equipment, fencing and watering systems, that dream is now closer than ever to becoming a reality. In the documentary, co-op representative Philile Nkwanyana shares their journey of teamwork, perseverance and making the most out of every opportunity. Their story is a heartwarming reminder that much like a thriving harvest, success takes time, and with patience and the right support, you can flourish.
Watch Their Stories
The stories of Mr. Mzimela and the women of Sizama Ukuyaphambili Co-Operative deserve to be heard, their successes celebrated, and their dreams nurtured. Hear their journey in their own words in our documentary, One Village, Two Growing A Sweet Future Stories, now on YouTube and coming soon to television.
