Future Agri Perspectives with its competitions sponsors are proud to announce the finalists in the 2026 Women’s Voice Competition that encourages conversation about agriculture on a broad platform.
After a rigorous selection process, five exceptional participants have been chosen from the entries received from across South Africa.
“We are thrilled to reveal the talented individuals who have made it to the final round of our competition! After an incredible display of insight and deliberation skills from all participants, the judges had the tough task of narrowing them down to five finalists. We also wish to thank all participants who entered and shared their stories with us. Your hard work and passion have not gone unnoticed ,” says Johann Pretorius, Director Future Agri Perspectives.
The finalists in the Women’s Voice Competition are:
- Petru Fourie
- Grietha van Rensburg
- Boniswa Huhle Dlamini
- Carla Myburgh
- Christel Basson
These finalists had the opportunity to share their views on any aspect impacting on their lives, careers in agriculture, the environment, or in their communities, and how they would bring about change.
The finalists were selected from all the entries received and will now all be invited to the prestige award event to be held at Hollard’s campus in Johannesburg on 30 July 2026 where an independent panel of judges will choose the winner and runners-up based on a final round of discussions.
“After reviewing the entries, it is a pity that only five finalists could be chosen. The topics of the entrants emphasised the meaningful role women play in the broader agricultural sector. It was clear that the possibilities are endless. We are looking forward to the gala event on 30 July 2026 where the winner will be announced. I believe, however, each of the women that had the courage to enter into the competition, is already a winner,” Pretorius adds.
The Women’s Voice Competition seeks to create a platform for women in agriculture to discuss agricultural issues and ultimately influence public and industry discourse. It aims to encourage well-thought-out and accurate deliberation of topics relating to agriculture.
“Women’s Voices in Agriculture recognises the leadership, innovation, and practical impact of women across agriculture and rural communities. Our commitment to this event is a commitment to recognising, uplifting, and connecting women in agriculture. By amplifying their voices and celebrating their achievements, we help build a more inclusive and sustainable future for agriculture. Meaningful change happens through genuine partnership and a deep understanding of the people who make the sector thrive. As a key sponsor, Hollard helps amplify the voices of women shaping the sector and is a catalyst for positive and enduring change,” says Andries Wiese, business development manager at Hollard and main sponsor of the competition.
During the gala event women who played pioneering roles in agriculture will also be honoured.
In 2024 Prof Estie van Marle-Köster, associate professor University of Pretoria; Dr Langa Simela, business development manager at ABSA; Mariana Purnell, former general manager Agbiz Grain; Dr Lukeshni Chetty, general manager SANSOR; and Prof Hettie Schönfeldt, University of Pretoria were honoured for the role they played throughout their career paving the way for the next generation of women in the agricultural sector.
In 2025 Dr Marinda Visser, Director: Strategic Projects and Partnerships in Agriculture, University of Pretoria Innovation Africa; Karen Nel, owner Design Biologix; Prof Driekie Fourie, Technical Product Lead Syngenta Seedcare; Prof Sonja Venter, Extraordinary Professor, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, were recognised for their contributions towards the sector over years.
“This we will again honour five exceptional women who’ve had a meaningful impact on agriculture throughout their careers,” Pretorius says.
Ends
Enquiries can be directed to: Marianna du Plessis: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
More about the organisers
Who is Future Agri Perspective?
Future Perspective is an initiative of like-minded individuals who are teaming together to present credible and scalable platforms for individuals in the agricultural value chain. These platforms facilitate a process for participants to present and voice insights and perspectives on relevant topics to stimulate debate and surface potential solutions, which might otherwise not have been tabled.
Our partners:
Hollard, Syngenta Seed, Empire Fleet solutions, NWK, FNB, Grain SA, Agbiz
Our supporting partners:
CRA Media and Farmer’s Weekly
