From the quiet village of Manyosini in Lady Frere comes a story of vision, resilience, and transformation. Pama Bonita Tokota, a young woman with a National Diploma in Economics and an Advanced Diploma in Business Studies Practice, with no agricultural background, is living proof that determination can redefine your future.

In 2020, faced with unemployment, she refused to be a statistic. Instead, she created her own opportunity by establishing Twin Bird Poultry Farm, starting with just 200 chicks per batch, funded solely by her family s savings. Through hard work, perseverance, and strategic partnerships, she has now expanded the operation into a thriving enterprise, supported by over R2 million in government investment initiatives between 2021 and 2025. This funding enabled her to acquire abattoir equipment, refrigerated trailers, a borehole, poultry feed, and more.

Today, her business employs 14 permanent staff members, many of them young people from her community. Her success has also led to contractual agreements with local businesses, including B&Bs, schools, and supermarkets, ensuring a consistent market for her products and contributing to the local economy.

In recognition of her impact, Pama was named the 2024 Eastern Cape Top Women Entrepreneur by the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform.

Her message to other young women is clear:

If you are unemployed, try agriculture. There are government initiatives ready to support you. Some may see women as vulnerable, but in reality, we are a force of strength, resilience, and innovation with the power to transform society.”

This Women s Month, we honour Pama Bonita Tokota, a shining example of how ambition, hard work, and opportunity can create lasting change.