Nandi Mkwanazi

Nandi Mkwanazi

Chief Sustainability and Programs Officer

Nandi Mkwanazi is an award-winning entrepreneur and organic farmer; she is the founder of Nanloy Organic Farm and is invested in changing the African narrative in the areas of food security and solution based Education. In 2019 Ms Mkwanazi launched the Ayanda Organic Home and School Gardens program. The training program teaches the beneficiaries how to grow their own organic food with a key focus on indigenous crops and developing seed banks. She has been named as one of Mail and Guardian’s 200 Young South Africans for 2022.  

Ms Mkwanazi is the Co-Founder and program director of Africa’s Brain HUB, an innovative social enterprise designed to foster the growth and development of the African continent with a focus on science, technology, energy and agriculture. A dynamic and passionate advocate for sustainable agriculture, climate change mitigation, and the advancement of technology. As Co-founder, Ms Mkwanazi plays an integral role in creating a conducive environment for women and youth to leverage the entrepreneurial ingenuity of Africa’s youth to accelerate the implementation of the AFCFTA and to drive cross-border trade in goods and services. 

Ms. Nandi Mkwanazi is the Co-Convenor of Advocacy and Communication for the South African Organic Sector Organisation (SAOSO), driving impactful initiatives for organizational advancement. She collaborates closely with stakeholders to craft and execute advocacy campaigns, utilizing diverse platforms to amplify messaging and advocate for policy change. With a keen strategic vision, Ms. Mkwanazi leads the development of comprehensive communication strategies, ensuring consistency and clarity across all channels. Her adeptness in building partnerships and engaging stakeholders fosters awareness about SAOSO’s mission and impact. Through her leadership, Ms. Mkwanazi advocates effectively, catalyzing positive change within the organic sector and beyond. 

As a speaker, Ms Mkwanazi possesses a rare ability to communicate complex ideas with clarity and enthusiasm, making these vital topics accessible to diverse audiences. Her engaging presentations foster a sense of urgency and empowerment, motivating people from all backgrounds to become agents of positive change in their communities and beyond.