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Nonhlanhla Joye

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Nonhlanhla Joye (also known as Ma’Joye)[1] is a South African community farmer, cancer survivor[2][3], and founder of the Umgibe Farming Organics and Training Institute[4].[5] Born in the village of uMpise[6], KwaZulu Natal, she learned farming from her parents[1][2] and later studied herbology abroad.

Nonhlanhla (Ma) Joye, South African social entrepreneur

In 2014, following a cancer diagnosis, Joye developed a unique "plastic bag system" for farming[7][1] . This innovation led to the creation of Umgibe[6][5], which empowers rural farmers with sustainable farming techniques[3] and business management skills[1][4]. Her work significantly impacts food security[5] and economic independence in her community[8].

Early Life and Education[edit]

Nonhlanhla Joye grew up in uMpise, KwaZulu Natal, where she helped her parents with farming[1].

Career and Innovations[edit]

During her recovery from cancer in 2014[4], Joye developed the "plastic bag system" for farming[7][6]. This system was instrumental in founding the Umgibe Farming Organics and Training Institute[9], which provides sustainable farming techniques[2] and business management skills to rural farmers[8].

Impact[edit]

Joye's initiatives have empowered over 160 cooperatives[4] and more than 3600 individuals[6][1]. Her efforts focus on ending hunger[9] and restoring dignity through sustainable farming practices[8][10].

Awards and Recognition[edit]

Nonhlanhla Joye has been recognized as a changemaker for her significant contributions to community farming and food security[5]. She has received 15[6] [5][11][10]prestigious awards related to entrepreneurship, business development, societal impact, and environmental friendliness[12].

Community Involvement[edit]

Through Umgibe, Joye has trained 300 agri-preneurs and 200 school children[4], known as seedpreneurs, to grow food and generate income[6]. Her work also addresses issues such as poverty[13], unemployment, and HIV, empowering women[3] and fostering community resilience[1][9][5].

Vision[edit]

Joye aims to make Umgibe the largest experiential training center in Africa, promoting self-sustainability and food security across the continent[5].

Innovations and Contributions[edit]

Joye uses a patented growing system that protects crops[3] and conserves water[1][12]. Umgibe serves as an incubator for small-scale farmers[9], providing training and support to build sustainable agribusinesses[7]. She emphasizes a circular economy[8][9], ensuring no waste by utilizing all parts of the vegetables grown[1].

Personal Philosophy[edit]

Joye defines innovation as breaking boundaries and changing mindsets to solve problems[1]. She focuses on facilitating rather than traditional training, helping entrepreneurs navigate towards their visions[5][13].

Future Plans[edit]

Nonhlanhla Joye represents South Africa at international forums on food security[9], sharing her expertise on building resilient food systems[5].




References[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i j "Nonhlanhla Joye". Meet Changemakers. Retrieved 2024-07-02.
  2. ^ a b c Doorsen, Faeez Van (2019-02-15). "From death's door to a master of agri-innovation". Food For Mzansi. Retrieved 2024-07-02.
  3. ^ a b c d Mulumba, Pie (2021-06-21). "Nonhlanhla Joye on Why Organic Food Matters". Longevity LIVE. Retrieved 2024-07-02.
  4. ^ a b c d e "Meet Ma Joye". dooiy.org. Retrieved 2024-07-02.
  5. ^ a b c d e f g h i "Umgibe farming project". commongoodfirst.com. Retrieved 2024-07-02.
  6. ^ a b c d e f "How one woman's tragedy sparked community renewal | Vuk'uzenzele". www.vukuzenzele.gov.za. Retrieved 2024-07-02.
  7. ^ a b c "Nonhlanhla Joye - Social Innovation". www.heavychef.com. Retrieved 2024-07-02.
  8. ^ a b c d "She grew a farm in a plastic packet | Beautiful News". www.beautifulnews.com. Retrieved 2024-07-02.
  9. ^ a b c d e f "Nonhlanhla Joye: Growing a farm in a plastic packet". www.momentummetropolitan.co.za. Retrieved 2024-07-02.
  10. ^ a b Louwrens, Kobus (2020-12-15). "'Ma Joye' is officially Africa's most influential woman in agri". Food For Mzansi. Retrieved 2024-07-02.
  11. ^ "Winners of FNB Business Innovations Awards 2019 unveiled". www.fanews.co.za. Retrieved 2024-07-02.
  12. ^ a b "How This South African Woman Grew a Farm in a Plastic Packet". Global Citizen. 2019-06-27. Retrieved 2024-07-02.
  13. ^ a b rezahaniff (2021-12-10). "Successful market day held". The Witness. Retrieved 2024-07-02.