Press release
Agricultural entrepreneur Masimbonge Vuma, gardening advocate Mosa Seshoene, urban-farming pioneer Ncumisa Mkabile and comedian and broadcaster Angel Campey have been named guest judges for Shoprite’s inaugural Act For Change Food Garden Competition.
Each bringing their unique perspectives to the competition that will showcase and recognise community gardeners across South Africa.
The call to enter was announced at the end of October, with entries open until 30 November, inviting community food gardeners whose projects are feeding families, creating jobs and teaching skills – proving that gardening provides more than just food. With collective prizes of R1 million in support tailored to each garden’s needs, Shoprite’s Act for Change Food Garden Competition seeks to recognise and strengthen food gardens that contribute to local nutrition, environmental sustainability and social upliftment.
Four voices, one vision: meet the 2025 judges
Born in Cala in the Eastern Cape, with qualifications in both mechanical engineering and agricultural management combined with hands-on experience in crop production, Masimbonge (photo below) knows what it takes to start from nothing, build a viable farm and then help others in the community. “Being part of this competition means I can recognise the passion and effort behind these gardens,” he says.
For Mosa (photo below), the simple act of growing food anywhere every day is exciting. “You don’t need acres to grow something meaningful. Whether it’s a balcony or a windowsill, the act of cultivating is powerful,” says the Centurion-based food gardener and third-generation farmer.
UNICEF Ambassador and Dawana Fresh Produce founder Ncumisa (photo below) has become one of Khayelitsha’s most inspiring voices in urban agriculture, transforming unused land into thriving spinach fields. She believes strongly in the broader impact of gardening. “It’s more than growing vegetables. It’s about growing people, community and hope,” she says.
And Angel (below), known for her vibrant connection with audiences through storytelling, says gardening has been a source of joy and calm for her. “I’m thrilled to help shine a light on the people who turn soil into community strength.”
“These four judges embody that spirit, bringing together storytelling, sustainability and social impact – all rooted in a shared belief that a food garden can transform much more than what’s on your plate,” says Sanjeev Raghubir, Chief Sustainability Officer at the Shoprite Group. “Each one brings a different kind of expertise, from hands-on farming and urban greening to communication and entrepreneurship. But they all share the same goal: celebrating how gardens build stronger, more self-sufficient communities.”
Why this matters
The latest South African Food Security Index shows that while access to food is improving (from 44.9 in 2023 to 56.5 in 2025), millions of households still struggle to access nutritious, affordable produce. Community gardens are part of the solution, as they put fresh, local food on tables, build practical skills and foster community connection.
They are also hubs of innovation, teaching participants how to grow food sustainably, manage resources and create vibrant neighbourhood spaces.
About the competition
The Act For Change Food Garden Competition forms part of the Shoprite Group’s ongoing commitment to food security and sustainable livelihoods. Over the past decade, the Group has invested in nearly 300 community gardens, which collectively produced more than 106 000 kg of fresh food last year.
With collective prizes worth R1 million, the competition will provide tailored support to winning gardens, from irrigation systems and shade netting to fencing and training. This support will help gardens grow stronger and more resilient, and make an even greater impact in their communities. Judging starts in January 2026, when the panel selects the Top 10 finalists. Winners will be announced by 30 April 2026.
Call to action
Do you know a community garden that is feeding, teaching or engaging neighbours in South Africa? Whether it’s a church plot, school garden or informal co-operative, now is the time to encourage them to enter. The competition is open to all community gardens. Entrants must be 18 or older and the garden must serve a broader community. Enter online at www.actforchangefoodgardencompetition.datafree.co – entry is free and no data costs apply.
