Zolile Caka’s journey with Beefmaster Group began 15 years ago when he had nothing but a matric qualification and a burning ambition to succeed. Through hard work, focus, dedication, and the support of the company, Zolile climbed the ranks and is now a data capturer. But he has greater aspirations. Recognising his potential, Beefmaster Group helped Zolile to obtain a National Diploma in Animal Production. In commemoration of the recently celebrated Youth Month, here is his story.
“I knew that pursuing this intellectually rigorous avenue would lead me to my dreams.” These are the words of Zolile Caka, data capturer at Beefmaster Group in Christiana, North West, after he completed a National Diploma in Animal Production with Peritum Agri Institute and support from Beefmaster Group.
His recognition of the importance of education is exceptionally relevant in the context of South Africa, where the youth unemployment rate in 2022 was 60%.
Growing up in the Free State surrounded by animals, Zolile had a passion for agriculture from a young age. This led him to choose animal production studies, driven by a desire to make a difference in the industry. “I wanted to do something with animals for my future career,” he says.
Zolile learnt about Beefmaster Group’s employee study assistance programme, successfully applied, and the company supported him by financing his studies and giving him resources. This allowed him to immerse himself in the curriculum and focus on his academic and personal growth.
He also received the prestigious “best progress” award from Peritum Agri Institute and the Red Meat Organisation.
Inspired by the belief that education is the key to success, Zolile said his personal growth would also support the advancement of the company.
“Hundreds of millions of small-scale producers and pastoralists depend on livestock for their livelihoods,” he says. “Farm animals play important economic, cultural, and social roles. I want to contribute my knowledge and experience to continue to make Beefmaster Group one of the best beef producers globally.”
From improving livestock feeding systems to facilitating the implementation of animal identification and traceability, Zolile’s education has empowered him to calculate profitability and make informed decisions.
Now he hopes to learn and grow enough to implement animal nutrition programmes, improve breeding programs, and promote sustainable and profitable agriculture. He dreams of helping farmers in the Free State to improve their animal handling and breeding.
And he has advice for anyone who wants to use education to fulfil their dreams: “Progress is only possible with hard work, passion, and commitment to excellence.”
He emphasises the importance of having a vision, a supporting plan, and being committed to your goals. He also encourages people to focus on what they want to achieve in life and avoid distractions that hinder progress.
Zolile’s story is a testament to the power of determination, unwavering support, and educational opportunities. Through its employee study assistance programme, Beefmaster Group has not only shaped a young man’s career but nurtured his personal growth, making him an inspiration for others who want to pursue their dreams in the agriculture industry.
