After months of dedication and growth, the standout young urban farmers of Clearwater Mall’s Cangro Challenge have been revealed. This pioneering sustainability initiative has inspired young minds to cultivate their own food and embrace eco-conscious living. The competition, which saw 450 students from local schools growing upside-down tomato plants over three months, culminated in an exciting final showdown at Clearwater Mall.
Taking top honours in this year’s challenge was Juan Hartzenberg from Muldersdrift Laerskool, securing first place and the coveted title of ‘Cangro Young Urban Farmer of the Year’. Emerald Phiri from Vuleka St Michael’s claimed second place, while Ava Barnard, also from Muldersdrift Laerskool, took third place. These young agricultural innovators were recognised not only for their ability to grow thriving tomato plants but also for their commitment to sustainability, creativity, and perseverance throughout the competition.
Each winner received a well-deserved prize: Juan Hartzenberg was awarded a R5 000 Clearwater Mall gift card, Emerald Phiri took home a R2 500 gift card, and Ava Barnard was rewarded with a R1 000 gift card. Their teachers were also honoured for their guidance and encouragement, with a R2 000 gift card which was shared between two outstanding mentors, while an additional R1 000 ‘I CAN’ prize was awarded for resilience and determination.
Cultivating Future Leaders Through Sustainability
The Cangro Challenge, backed by the Department of Education and The Wits Centre for Entrepreneurial Thinking, has successfully introduced young learners to the principles of urban farming, recycling, and environmental responsibility. Through hands-on experience, students discovered the joy and responsibility of nurturing plants, learning valuable life skills that extend beyond the classroom.
Prianka Singh Rogers, Marketing Manager of Clearwater Mall, expressed her admiration for the participants: “The Cangro Challenge isn’t just about growing tomatoes; it’s about growing future leaders who understand the value of sustainability. We are incredibly proud of every student who participated. Their enthusiasm, creativity, and perseverance have been inspiring, and we believe initiatives like these plant the seeds for a more eco-conscious generation.”
The journey began in October with an engaging ‘Planting Day’ at participating schools, where students received Cangro grow-kits, including tomato seedlings in repurposed cans. Over the next few months, they nurtured their plants with support from the Cangro team via an interactive online platform, engaging in educational activities that complemented their Grade 4 Natural Science curriculum. The challenge encouraged family involvement, fostering a deeper connection between children and their environment.
A Celebration of Innovation and Sustainability
The grand finale at Clearwater Mall was a celebration of both individual and community achievements, highlighting the project’s impact in promoting food security and environmental awareness. With its ability to unite children, educators, and families around a common goal, the Cangro Challenge stands as a testament to the power of collaboration between local businesses and the communities they serve.
“This initiative is about more than just growing food,” Prianka continued. “It’s about seeding a mindset of resilience, innovation, and sustainability that will benefit these children and their communities for years to come.”
Clearwater Mall extends its heartfelt congratulations to all participants and looks forward to seeing the impact of this initiative grow in the years ahead.
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Image 1 left to right: Second place winner Emerald Phiri from Vuleka St Michael’s with Diane Kramer from Cangro.
Images 2, 3 and 4 left to right: Diane Kramer from Cangro; third place winner Ava Barnard from Muldersdrif Laerskool; Prianka Singh Rodgers from Clearwater Mall; winner Juan Hartzenberg from Muldersdrif Laerskool.
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