Emerging Farmers (Empower)

The Emerging Farmers Programme is a two-year journey designed to build a strong foundation in Faith, Farming, Family, and Finances—equipping individuals to create lasting impact in their communities.

Each year, 30 selected farmers gather at Etz Chayim Farm for an intensive two-week training experience. During this time, participants are equipped with practical knowledge, core values, and essential skills, and are challenged to return home as agents of transformation.

Our approach is deeply holistic:

• Heart – The first week focuses on renewing belief systems, laying the foundation for personal and spiritual growth.
• Head – Participants develop critical thinking, planning, and decision-making skills.
• Hands – Practical training in farming and life skills equips participants for real-world application.

Following the on-site training, participants enter a structured two-year follow-up journey. This ongoing support provides mentorship, guidance, and accountability as they apply what they’ve learned within their own communities.

Graduates of the programme—known as “Transformers”—play a vital role in multiplying impact. Each Transformer mentors a small group of four individuals, forming what we call Isandla (“hand”) groups. Through these groups, knowledge, skills, and values are passed on, creating a ripple effect of sustainable change.