TLU SA is looking for first youth farmer of the year

Tiaan Barkhuizen was named Young Farmer of the Year in 2025. (Photo: TLU SA)

TLU SA is expanding its Young Farmer of the Year competition by offering a Young Farmer of the Year competition for scholars in 2026 for the first time. The project gives young people the opportunity to develop their entrepreneurial spirit, creativity and sense of responsibility already at school level through practical agricultural and food projects.

“The Young Farmer of the Year proves year after year that it is a powerful platform to show young people’s talent and innovation,” says Bennie van Zyl, general manager of TLU SA. He says they see great value in extending these opportunities to schools and exposing children from a young age to the principles of sustainable agriculture and entrepreneurship.

The Youth Farmer of the Year project focuses on developing children’s problem-solving skills, creative thinking and sense of responsibility, even on a small scale. Participants show that farming is not just about large farms, but about ideas, planning and sustainable action that creates value for their communities.

“It is important to us that children learn early on how to put ideas into practice and take responsibility. The project is a step to inspire the next generation of innovators and leaders in agriculture.”

The Youth Farmer of the Year competition starts in 2026 and promises to be an exciting new platform for schools and young people to showcase their ideas and skills to a wider audience.

Find out more here or sign up for youth farmer of the year.

Minor participants need written permission from a parent or guardian to enter, as well as for the use of photos and videos for media and promotional purposes.