In the heart of a rural area in Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal, Nosipho Mdakane is cultivating more than flowers. She is growing a dream with her flower farm Izimbali Growers. At the age of 39, the former construction professional has transformed a piece of land into a vibrant flower farm.
Mdakane, who is originally from Cape Town and later lived in Johannesburg, moved to Ladysmith when her father-in-law fell ill and needed care. Her journey began in 2021 when her husband gifted her seeds, starting with a single field of sunflowers that sparked her passion. What began as a personal project has gradually evolved into a potential community enterprise.
"I would love the business to grow. There are a lot of unemployed women here like myself and you can see there is potential for work throughout the seasons."
Mdakane, who studied building science and worked at the National Home Builders Registration Council as an inspector before moving to her husband's hometown, believes in methodical and sustainable flower farming.
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