North West Youth Leaders Make Global Impact in Agriculture

North West’s young agricultural leaders are gaining international recognition with the election of Thabo Makoa and Lesedi Gaaboe to the Youth Chapter of the World Food Forum South Africa. The announcement has drawn praise from the province’s MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, who highlighted the milestone as a proud moment for North West.

Thabo Makoa will serve as chairperson of the Youth Chapter, while Lesedi Gaaboe takes the lead in the education, research, and training portfolio. Both hail from North West and are active members of the provincial Youth in Agriculture and Rural Development (Yard) leadership structure. Their election demonstrates the province’s growing influence in developing young leaders who are ready to contribute to food security, sustainability, and the transformation of the agricultural sector.

“This achievement brings immense pride to the people of North West. We celebrate Makoa and Gaaboe for flying our provincial flag high and setting an example of excellence, discipline, and commitment,” Sambatha said. He added that their election reflects the depth of talent in the province and the leadership potential of its youth.

The MEC emphasized that having North West representatives at a global platform strengthens the province’s engagement on issues of food security, sustainability, and rural development. “Their success reinforces our belief that the future of agriculture is in the hands of young people who are innovative, forward-thinking, and determined to build a resilient and inclusive sector,” he stated.

Provincial Yard chairperson Ipeleng-Kwadi-Seboni also expressed confidence that the duo’s election will inspire rural communities and empower young farmers. She highlighted that their roles will create opportunities for North West youth to connect with global agricultural initiatives, fostering innovation, growth, and inclusivity across the sector.

Makoa and Gaaboe’s election positions North West at the forefront of youth-led agricultural development. Their work will contribute to shaping food systems, promoting sustainable practices, and elevating the voices of young farmers both nationally and internationally.

This recognition underscores the potential of South Africa’s youth in agriculture, demonstrating that visionary leadership and dedication can transform local initiatives into global influence. For North West, it marks a step forward in building a resilient, inclusive, and innovative agricultural future.