Thembisa Mpengesi heard about CWP and started working for the programme in 2009, which encouraged her to build a new garden and grow it with the skills she had learnt through the programme. With the help of CWP, her garden was then fenced and she was headed towards success.

Due to her dedication, Thembisa was elected as a Secretary for Lusikisiki Farmers Association. A facilitator from the Abalimi Phambili Programme advised her to plant potatoes and informed her of the high demand for this type of vegetable in the area. Thembisa surpassed her own expectations, and won a monetary prize for producing 102 10kg bags; she also went further to win second place at an Agricultural Show in 2011 for her carrots.

“Since then I have been promoted to CWP Assistant Facilitator. I am so happy because it has helped me to increase the size of my garden, and now I can provide for my children. With the income I receive, I have also managed to send my cousin to school,” said Thembisa.

Thembisa is a very ambitious worker and there is no doubt that she will make a success of any field of agriculture she decides to master.  She is constantly referred to as a Master Farmer in her ward, and is used as a role model when advising other poultry and vegetables farmers.

“All the skills I have learnt through the Community Work Programme have helped me to believe in myself and my abilities. It is an amazing feeling to be able to live comfortably, by having additional finances for my home as well as working close to home, “said Thembisa.