They cultivate sultanas, honeybush and citrus. Three emerging farmers, three success stories. Such is the quality of their crops that they have found their way to export markets.
     Seven years old and planting her first sultana vine. That is how it all began for a little girl growing up in Eksteenskuil in the Northern Cape.
     Earlier this year that same girl, now a successful businesswoman, was named Top Producer for Export Markets in the 2008 Female Farmer of the Year competition. With her cash prize, she intends to grow her business.
Elize Beukes from Skaapeiland near Kakamas started Elize Boerdery in 2000. Her sultanas, grown on two hectares, are delivered to SAD who undertake the drying process on her behalf. Today her raisins are exported to several countries, mostly the UK. It is a fantastic success story. How did she do it?

Strong partnerships, within a network of experts and contacts, contribute to the successful implementation of the SA Agri Academy (SAAA)’ skills programmes. The Market Development Program (MDP) focus on capacity building of financial, life, management, marketing and technical skills of emerging agri businesses. Experts assist SAAA’s registered assessors and facilitators in the presentation of above MDP. These experts are representatives of SAAA’s local and international partners. Training at the Academy is based on theory and practise. Theoretical classroom sessions are followed by practical industry visits. Through this, method best practises are illustrated for implementation by participants in their own businesses.