Dear Friends and Supporters,
In our ongoing mission to empower vulnerable communities through agriculture and self-sustaining initiatives, we held another impactful PV Agri Meeting. led by Bishop Paul Verryn, creating real, life-changing differences—tackling food security, funding barriers, and community resilience in the face of climate challenges.
We noted apologies from Nancy, Manana, Chinimute, Bonginkosi, Penny, Faith, Nomvuyi, and David and dove straight in.
John reviewed recent interactions, including Nancy's workshop and Judy's youth retreat. He highlighted the widespread need for funding across many projects, such as Mr. Mbata's water pump desperation in Eikenhof, the revival of the Jabavu Training Centre Soweto and many others including many church-related community initiatives.
Currently brainstorming a comprehensive roadmap to address these gaps, emphasizing the potential of the group, to reach outsite its current focus.
He also shared positive news on the Cape Town project, which is set to start soon.
Eudonia proposed registering our group as a non-profit company to expand nationwide, leveraging our diverse expertise for self-sustaining community support.
Echoing John and Eudonia, Sheila stressed our group's gifts in research, teaching, and more.
She suggested a dedicated in-person day to explore group registration, mission-setting, and funding applications to amplify our impact.
Scott emphasized foundational skills for any organization—management, finance, strategic development, and outreach. He advocated for skill-building among participants, especially in the non-profit sector, and offered support.
He also tied this to long-term educational programs on climate change and sustainability for primary schools, plus ideas like challenge grants to motivate funding.
Anthony highlighted digital tools as key for aggregating results in small operations.
He's in talks with potential collaborators and sees this integrating into our collective efforts.
Dr. Modise reported on finalizing an MOU between his university and one in Zimbabwe for agricultural collaboration.
He invited Bishop Verryn to join a future visit and mentioned an upcoming meeting in Welkom on October 14.
Sheila is attending conferences to gather insights on South Africa's climate strategies, government actions, and implementations in schools, skills development, and renewable energy.
Scott floated challenge grants for competitive funding and updated on Sulsa's pilot projects, including tribal lands in Limpopo, with progress amid delays.
Eudonia shared advancements in securing meetings with the Department of Agriculture and Land Affairs for youth training farms in the Eastern Cape.
Clint mentioned Mr. Mbata's interest in livestock production and agreed to connect during Bishop Verryn's upcoming KwaZulu-Natal visit.
The meeting wrapped up efficiently, with reconvening set for next Friday at 11 AM.
If you're inspired to contribute—whether through expertise, partnerships, or support —reach out. Together, we're making a tangible difference in lives across South Africa.
Stay connected, and let's keep pushing for sustainable impact.
In solidarity,
The PV Agri Team
Contact: [email protected]
Podcast and YouTube versions, with video & extra images from the regions.
PodCast version from Bishop Paul Verryn's weekly Agriculture forum.
Download and listen to all the episodes to hear from people working to make a difference.
