Startup Story
Zaza Letsholo is the founder of ABM Farming Dreams in South Africa. She is a passionate farmer and community builder specializing in livestock and dry bean production. Inspired by her late father, a dedicated farmer, Zaza grew up on a farm where she learned the values of hard work and resilience. In addition to her farming endeavours, she runs a safe haven for vulnerable individuals, including orphans. With over 12 years of experience in car sales, Zaza is also an award-winning top performer in her field. Her commitment to agriculture and community welfare reflects her desire to make a meaningful impact in her community.
LoA spoke to the impact driven Zaza Letsholo about her passion for agriculture, her desire to make a positive difference in her local community, and her vision for the future of her business.
When did your start your business?:
I officially transitioned to full-time farming in 2021 after leaving my position as a sales executive. This decision allowed me to fully dedicate my efforts to livestock and crop production, as well as to my mission of supporting vulnerable individuals in my community. Today the business has created jobs for 3 people.
“My company focuses on sustainable agriculture, specializing in livestock and dry bean production. We are committed to implementing environmentally friendly farming practices that promote soil health and biodiversity.”
What does your company do?
My company focuses on sustainable agriculture, specializing in livestock and dry bean production. We are committed to implementing environmentally friendly farming practices that promote soil health and biodiversity. Additionally, we operate a safe haven for vulnerable individuals, including orphans, providing them with shelter, care, and support. Through our agricultural initiatives and community outreach, we aim to empower individuals and contribute positively to the well-being of our community.
What inspired you to start your company?
My inspiration to start my company stems from my deep-rooted connection to farming and the profound influence of my father, who was a dedicated farmer. Growing up on a farm, I learned the importance of hard work, responsibility, and nurturing the land. After my father passed away in 2009, I felt a strong desire to honor his legacy by continuing his work in agriculture. This passion for farming, combined with a commitment to uplifting vulnerable members of my community, motivated me to create a business that not only focuses on sustainable agriculture but also provides support and care for those in need.
Why should anyone use your service or product?
What makes my business special is our commitment to sustainable and ethical farming practices, which not only enhance the quality of our livestock and crops but also contribute to the health of our environment. We focus on dry bean production, a vital crop that supports food security and nutrition in our community. Additionally, our safe haven for vulnerable individuals reflects our dedication to social responsibility and community building.
As I continue to learn and grow in this field, I embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with running a business. This journey inspires me to innovate and adapt, ensuring that I not only honor my father’s legacy but also create a lasting positive impact on the lives of those around me. My openness to learning allows me to improve continuously and strive for breakthroughs in both agriculture and community support.
Tell us a little about your team
My team primarily consists of motivated young individuals who are eager to learn and grow in the field of agriculture. I believe in empowering them by teaching responsibility and fostering a sense of ownership in their work. I encourage a collaborative environment where they can develop their skills and contribute meaningfully without the need for micromanagement.
By providing mentorship and guidance, I aim to instill confidence and a strong work ethic in my team. Together, we are building a culture of accountability and innovation, which not only enhances our productivity but also prepares these young individuals for future opportunities in agriculture and beyond.
“Through our agricultural initiatives and community outreach, we aim to empower individuals and contribute positively to the well-being of our community.”
“What makes my business special is our commitment to sustainable and ethical farming practices, which not only enhance the quality of our livestock and crops but also contribute to the health of our environment.”
Share a little about your entrepreneurial journey. And do you come from an entrepreneurial background?
My entrepreneurial journey has been shaped by years of experience in sales, beginning with my first job as a waiter, where I honed my skills in customer service and learned the value of hard work. Over five years, I saved diligently from tips and was proud to purchase my first brand-new car, a milestone that fueled my ambition.
I then transitioned to a sales executive role at Volkswagen, where I thrived in a competitive environment and eventually became one of the top performers in the country. This experience taught me the importance of resilience, adaptability, and building strong relationships with customers.
In 2021, I decided to pursue my passion for agriculture full-time, leaving my successful sales career to focus on farming. I now cultivate and sell my own sugar beans to the community, combining my sales expertise with my love for farming. While I come from a background rooted in sales rather than traditional entrepreneurship, my journey has equipped me with valuable skills and insights that I apply to my agricultural endeavors. I embrace the challenges of this new path, continually learning and growing as I work to make a positive impact in my community.
What are your future plans and aspirations for your company?
My future plans for the company are ambitious and driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact in both agriculture and my community. I aspire to become one of the leading female farmers, not only in my country but globally, known for my commitment to sustainable practices and community development.
With God’s grace and the necessary resources, I aim to expand my farming operations to cultivate 600 hectares. This growth will enable me to create job opportunities for families, helping them achieve a better quality of life and contributing positively to our local economy.
Additionally, I envision building a new safe haven for vulnerable children, providing them with a nurturing environment where they can thrive. By combining my passion for farming with a commitment to social responsibility, I hope to inspire others and drive positive change within my community.
What gives you the most satisfaction being an entrepreneur?
What gives me the most satisfaction as an entrepreneur is the ability to take control of my own journey and the freedom to pursue my passion for farming. Leaving my stable job to fully focus on entrepreneurship was not an easy decision, but it has allowed me to face challenges head-on and grow both personally and professionally.
The fulfillment that comes from cultivating the land, nurturing my crops, and seeing the direct impact of my work on my community is incredibly rewarding. Knowing that I am not only building a business but also creating opportunities for others and making a difference in their lives brings me immense joy. Each challenge I encounter strengthens my resolve and deepens my commitment to my mission, making the entrepreneurial journey a truly enriching experience.
What's the biggest piece of advice you can give to other women looking to start-up?
The biggest piece of advice I can offer to other women looking to start their own businesses is: it is never too late to begin. Start where you are, with what you have, and take that first step fearlessly. You don’t need to have everything figured out or be perfect to start. Embrace the journey and understand that you will learn and grow along the way.
Every experience, whether positive or challenging, contributes to your development as an entrepreneur. Trust in your ability to adapt and overcome obstacles, and remember that your unique perspective and strengths are valuable assets. Believe in yourself, take action, and don’t hesitate to pursue your dreams. The world needs more women entrepreneurs making a difference!
Find out more:
Email: Zaza@abmfarming.co.za
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zaza.mahlangu.7?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zaza_letsholo?igsh=MXdzdDZyMDk1Nmw5Mw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Why LoA loves it…
Businesses that operate at the heart of communities understand the needs and aspirations of local people, and are often underpinned with a mission to make a positive impact on people’s lives. This is a key driver for Zaza Letsholo and her agribusiness, ABM Farming Dreams. She is not only growing sustainable food products to tackle the challenge of food security, but also creating jobs and community outreach initiatives to improve the wellbeing of local people. Zaza is a local impact-maker with a big vision. — Melanie Hawken, founder & ceo, Lionesses of Africa