WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER BEEN GIVEN?

My father’s advice never to give up, and that persistence and hard work always pay off.

YOUR BIGGEST SUCCESS SO FAR?

Winning the Free State Female Entrepreneur and the Emerging Beef Farmer of the Year awards.

WHO HAS MADE THE BIGGEST CONTRIBUTION TO YOUR SUCCESS?

My parents – they instilled sound business skills in me. And my husband and kids, whose support is unwavering.

WHAT IS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR NEIGHBOURS LIKE?

We have a good relationship with all the farmers in our area. We often receive good advice from them. Also very supportive is our good friend Dr Edgar Payne.

WAS FINANCING A STRUGGLE?

It’s always a struggle. You just have to keep knocking on doors and ensure your produce is top-notch.

WHAT ROLE HAVE INPUT SUPPLIERS PLAYED IN YOUR BUSINESS?

We have a good relationship with them and they give us valuable advice and information.

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR THE MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE?

She must give farmers who have proven themselves the title deedsto their farms. This will give them certainty to develop their farms as much as they can. Government could also provide surety to farmers for better access to finance, or subsidised loans where 60% is a grant and 40% is payable.

HOW IMPORTANT HAS ORGANISED AGRICULTURE BEEN TO YOU?

It is very important, especially in terms of networking and sharing ideas.