Welcoming our new YPARD South Africa Country Representative!

​We're thrilled to announce the appointment of Phiri Thapelo as the new YPARD Country Representative for South Africa!

Phiri is a passionate entrepreneur, innovator, and thought leader working at the forefront of African agriculture. He brings with him a deep commitment to regenerative agriculture, sustainable farming solutions, and climate-resilient food systems. Through his organization, Ag Beyond Sustainability, he has pioneered several impactful initiatives—including transforming raw materials into high-quality organic fertilizers and leading biochar-based regenerative farming projects.

Phiri views agriculture not just as a sector, but as a powerful movement—one that shapes economies, restores ecosystems, and feeds nations.

As a firm advocate for climate resilience, Phiri completed specialized training in Digital Climate Information and Advisory Services (DCAS) to support smallholder farmers across Southern Africa. His goal is to equip farmers with innovative tools and knowledge to adapt to the realities of climate change.

In addition to his work on the ground, Phiri has also undertaken training programs focused on:

• Designing sustainable capacity development projects for youth in agriculture
• Strengthening youth organizations through the Capacity Development Blended Learning Programme (BLP)
• Facilitating multi-stakeholder engagement and development

These programs, facilitated by ITOCA and FAO, have bolstered his ability to lead youth-driven initiatives that make a tangible impact in the agricultural sector.

Phiri has represented African perspectives in global dialogues around soil health, climate action, and sustainability, participating in platforms like COP, ESG summits, and international trade fairs. Still, his greatest passion lies in empowering young professionals—the future leaders of agriculture.

As YPARD South Africa’s Country Representative, Phiri aims to build a thriving, inclusive network of young professionals in agriculture. He believes South Africa holds untapped potential when it comes to engaging youth in agriculture, and he is determined to shift perceptions and open new doors for the next generation of agri-leaders. He strongly believes that this is not just his journey—it is a collective movement. Whether you're a student, researcher, entrepreneur, or policymaker, Phiri wishes to develop YPARD South Africa in a way that it is a platform that anyone can approach and be a part of. Together, he is keen to shape a regenerative future for agriculture in South Africa.

Please join us in welcoming Phiri Thapelo to the YPARD family! We’re excited to support his journey and vision as he leads YPARD South Africa into a new era of innovation, sustainability, and youth empowerment.

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