Growing dreams one bloom at a time

In the heart of the rural area of Ladysmith in KwaZulu-Natal, Nosipho Mdakane is cultivating more than just flowers – she is growing a dream through her business, Izimbali Growers.

At the age of 39, this former construction professional has transformed a piece of land into a vibrant flower farm.

Mdakane who is originally from Cape Town and later lived in Johannesburg moved to Ladysmith when her father-in-law fell ill and needed care.

Her journey began in 2021 when her husband gifted her seeds, starting with a single field of sunflowers that sparked her passion.

What began as a personal project has gradually evolved into a potential community enterprise.

“I would love the business to grow. There’s a lot of unemployed women here like myself and you can see that there is potential for work throughout the seasons.”

Mdakane who studied building science and worked at the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC) as an inspector before moving to her husband’s hometown believes in methodical and sustainable flower farming.

“I try not to overwhelm myself. I purchase and add one new type of flower each season,” she said.

The 6 000 square metre family plot has six to seven flower beds, producing significant yields.

She initially grew sunflowers and has now expanded to growing dahlias, zinnias, celosia, ranunculus and anemones.

The mother of two relies on family labour and has received some government support for branding and market access.

A good investment 

Despite challenges such as manual irrigation and harsh weather conditions, Mdakane remains optimistic.

“Flowers are quite a good investment. They’re literally the gift that keeps giving. From starting with about two beds of flowers to about 10 and that’s from that first initial investment. So, we’re getting flowers from the flowers that we initially planted.”

Currently supplying a local wedding venue, a florist and selling at the local market, Mdakane dreams of expanding.

“My business plan is not just about growing flowers but I want to do workshops, teach other people how to grow flowers.

“I don’t want to be the only supplier of flowers in my local market,” she told Vuk’uzenzele.

Her immediate needs are greenhouses and a proper irrigation system, highlighting the infrastructure required to turn her passion into a scalable business.

For Mdakane, this journey is about more than commerce.

“Growing flowers, planting and sharing that experience with your kids is much more fulfilling.

“Looking at the cycle of flowers... once it sprouts, the fact that a small seed becomes something so beautiful – it’s so exciting,” she concluded.

For more information about Izimbali Growers, visit their Facebook page: Izimbali Growers.