An agribusiness consultant with Ag First, Tafi Manjala recounts his early introduction to agriculture in Zimbabwe, where he was "born and bred on a farm" and had family members working on farms as well.
His move to New Zealand in 2002 marked a significant transition, where he faced the "baptism of fire" of adapting to a new climate and the demanding nature of dairy farming.
Manjala explains the regional differences in New Zealand agriculture, such as dealing with Kikuyu grass in Northland and emphasising the importance of whole systems consulting, where understanding the technicalities of farming must be balanced with a human connection.
"You've got to really understand the people as a starting point... what are their non-negotiables."
Manjala's involvement in the Extension 350 project, a venture aimed at enhancing profitability, sustainability, and well-being among Northland farmers. He shares his pride in the project's success, particularly in how it normalised conversations about well-being in the farming community.
"Well-being was not a... common talk, but that became normalised as part of that project.”
Listen to the full chat between Tafi Manjala and Dominic George above.
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