Published by: Bokamoso Farmers Academy Marketing Team

Contributor: Lesego Kgomokaboya, BFA Student

At Bokamoso Farmers Academy, our educational model relies on a balance of theory and immersive practical experience. When our campus hosted a student competition, the reward was an all-expenses-paid, fully sponsored trip to NAMPO Harvest Day—one of Africa’s largest agricultural exhibitions. Our very own student, Lesego Kgomokaboya, won this incredible opportunity and shared a personal reflection on how stepping out of the classroom opened doors that textbooks simply cannot match.

Have you ever wondered what happens when 80,000 farmers gather in one place? I recently found out. Visiting the NAMPO Harvest Day was genuinely one of the best experiences of my life, and I am incredibly grateful to Bokamoso Farmers Academy for making this trip possible.

My journey began right on campus. The only reason I was able to attend NAMPO was because I pushed myself to participate in a school competition, working hard until I won. To be completely honest, this was my first time experiencing an agricultural event of this magnitude, and I was initially quite nervous and unsure of myself. However, I decided to try anyway because I knew that life-changing opportunities come to those who are willing to participate and believe in themselves. Winning taught me firsthand that hard work, self-confidence, and determination can open doors you never expected.

A Direct Lesson in the Future of Farming

Stepping onto the exhibition grounds in the Free State, it felt like a direct lesson in the future of farming. From marvelling at massive John Deere combined harvesters to seeing the latest industry innovations, the scale of it all completely changed how I view agriculture in my studies. I learned so much about commercial machinery, advanced agricultural technology, livestock, and the vital role of teamwork in a successful operation.

Beyond the tech, the hospitality from the BFA staff was amazing. They looked after us perfectly—from excellent hotel accommodations to encouraging us to try unique foods we didn’t even know the names of!

The learning didn’t stop at the exhibition gates, either. On our way home through the North West, Mr. Tjale took us to visit a highly successful black female farmer. She was an absolute inspiration—acting as a farmer, teacher, influencer, and business instructor all at once. Seeing her success made me realize how important education, modern skills, and networking are for the future of our industry. This entire experience has motivated me to dream bigger and has proven that young agripreneurs can achieve monumental things when they make full use of the platforms given to them.

“This trip showed me that agriculture is not just about farming the land; it is about continuous learning, innovation, and seizing the right opportunities.”

An Encouragement to My Fellow Peers

Choosing Bokamoso Farmers Academy has been a true blessing, and I really appreciate everything the institution has done to expand our horizons. Because of this journey, I want to strongly encourage every single student at BFA to take your studies seriously and actively enter upcoming campus competitions and programs.

These initiatives are not just about winning a prize. They are built to help us cultivate internal confidence, expand our practical knowledge, build leadership skills, and gain invaluable real-world experience. If I had not taken the leap to enter that competition, I would have missed out on a journey that took me across provinces, introduced me to industry leaders, and gave me wonderful memories and lessons.

Always believe in yourself, work hard, and never be afraid to try something new. One single opportunity can change your life and inspire you to become better.