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Suzan is an agronomist and farmer from Lesotho, and embarked on her potato farming journey in 2021 after completing her studies while seeking employment. Taking on the role of manager on her farm, she gained valuable experience in crop management, working with people, and handling financial responsibilities. In addition to farming, she provides advisory services on potato cultivation to her community, sharing her expertise to support local agricultural development.
To enhance her skills and knowledge, Suzan actively participates in short training courses and symposiums on topics of interest. She has also pursued internships and volunteer opportunities within the agricultural sector. In 2022, she was awarded a paid internship through the Transforming African Agricultural Universities to Meaningfully Contribute to Africa's Growth and Development (TAGDev) program. This position, held at Lesotho's Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in the Department of Agricultural Research, allowed her to work as a research assistant alongside experts from the Agronomy and Seed Unit. Her work involved data collection, analysis, and contributing to research on various crops, including beans and maize.
During her tenure, Suzan's dedication to advancing agricultural research earned her a place at the regional training course on Mutation Breeding of Vegetatively Propagated Crops in Senegal. The course provided her with critical knowledge and hands-on experience, further equipping her to engage with agricultural experts and contribute meaningfully to the sector.
Suzan’s professional journey also includes a paid internship in 2017, sponsored by the Association of African Universities (AAU). As an extension officer with Durham Link in the Ha-Mohatlane community, she advised farmers on crop production and poultry management. These experiences have shaped her passion for agriculture, a commitment she developed at a young age.
Motivated to empower young agricultural professionals in Lesotho, Suzan is dedicated to establishing a well-recognized and functional YPARD Lesotho chapter. Her vision is to bring together young professionals—both university students and graduates—while fostering collaboration with universities, agricultural organizations, and progressive farmers to transform the agri-food system.
The YPARD Lesotho chapter aims to enable young professionals to participate effectively in agri-food systems by promoting teamwork and networking. Suzan plans to organize monthly online interactive discussions (webinars) and conduct workshops that empower youth involvement in agriculture. She also envisions mentorship programs with university lecturers and experts from the Ministry of Agriculture to provide youth with practical skills and knowledge in relevant agricultural topics.
As YPARD Country Representative of Lesotho, Suzan looks forward to enhance her professional growth, and expand her knowledge and skills in agriculture. She is committed to delivering needs-driven solutions for her community and contributing to the transformation of agri-food systems.
We're thrilled to have you on board, Suzan!
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