Zaza Letsholo is a South African agripreneur and the founder of ABM Farming Dreams, a business focused on sustainable livestock and dry bean (sugar bean) production. She grows healthy crops through eco-friendly methods while creating safe spaces, jobs, and hope for vulnerable children and her local community.
For twelve years, Letsholo had a successful career in car sales. But when her father, a lifelong farmer, passed away in 2009, something shifted inside her. Thus, in 2021, she transitioned from her corporate career to full-time farming.
“My passion lies in farming, and I aspire to become one of the leading female farmers in my community in South Africa and beyond.” – Zaza Letsholo.
Through ABM Farming Dreams, Zaza Letsholo transforms lives by combining sustainable farming with social impact.
From car sales to agriculture
ABM Farming Dreams focuses on sustainable agriculture, specialising in livestock and dry bean (sugar bean) production. The company implements environmentally friendly farming practices that promote soil health and biodiversity, aiming to enhance crop yields while positively impacting the environment and local community.
ABM uses eco-friendly farming methods that protect the environment and keep the land healthy. These methods include reducing soil disturbance to maintain its strength, helping it retain water, and storing carbon to combat climate change.
They also rotate crops, especially sugar beans, to improve the soil, keep pests away, and add nutrients to the ground. They plant cover crops during the off-season to stop erosion, reduce weeds, and keep the soil healthy.
Water is also used wisely through low-pressure irrigation, which saves water and reduces waste. The farm also supports bees and butterflies by creating safe spaces, since they help pollinate the crops. To reduce pollution, they recycle farm plastics and safely eliminate old pesticides. These sustainable practices help the farm grow healthy crops while caring for the land and supporting the local community.
Alongside her farm, Letsholo founded the Zaza Mahlangu Foundation. This foundation provides housing, care, education, and mentorship for vulnerable individuals, including orphans and disadvantaged youths. She believes every child deserves a safe and loving home and is on a mission to build a second home for vulnerable, orphaned, and abandoned children. She is giving them hope, security, and a brighter future.”
Her next move involves expanding her farm to 600 hectares, which would result in larger harvests, increased job opportunities, and a safer environment for children in need.
