Draft:Nonhlanhla Joye

Nonhlanhla Joye (also known as Ma'Joye) is a South African community farmer, cancer survivor, and founder of the Umgibe Farming Organics and Training Institute. Born in the village of uMpise, KwaZulu Natal, she learned farming from her parents and later studied herbology abroad.

In 2014, following a cancer diagnosis, Joye developed a unique "plastic bag system " for farming. This innovation led to the creation of Umgibe, which empowers rural farmers with sustainable farming techniques and business management skills. Her work significantly impacts food security and economic independence in her community.

Early life and education
Nonhlanhla Joye grew up in uMpise, KwaZulu Natal, where she helped her parents with farming.

Career and Innovations
During her recovery from cancer in 2014, Joye developed the "plastic bag system" for farming. This system was instrumental in founding the Umgibe Farming Organics and Training Institute, which provides sustainable farming techniques and business management skills to rural farmers.

Impact
Joye's initiatives have empowered over 160 cooperatives and more than 3600 individuals. Her efforts focus on ending hunger and restoring dignity through sustainable farming practices.

Awards and recognition
Nonhlanhla Joye has been recognized as a changemaker for her significant contributions to community farming and food security. She has received 15  prestigious awards related to entrepreneurship, business development, societal impact, and environmental friendliness.

Community involvement
Through Umgibe, Joye has trained 300 agri-preneurs and 200 school children, known as seedpreneurs, to grow food and generate income. Her work also addresses issues such as poverty, unemployment, and HIV, empowering women and fostering community resilience.

Vision
Joye aims to make Umgibe the largest experiential training center in Africa, promoting self-sustainability and food security across the continent.

Innovations and contributions
Joye uses a patented growing system that protects crops and conserves water. Umgibe serves as an incubator for small-scale farmers, providing training and support to build sustainable agribusinesses. She emphasizes a circular economy, ensuring no waste by utilizing all parts of the vegetables grown.

Personal philosophy
Joye defines innovation as breaking boundaries and changing mindsets to solve problems. She focuses on facilitating rather than traditional training, helping entrepreneurs navigate towards their visions.

Future plans
Nonhlanhla Joye represents South Africa at international forums on food security, sharing her expertise on building resilient food systems.