MODERN CENTRIC AND DELOITTE COLLABORATE TO EMPOWER LEARNERS WITH DIS-ABILITIES AND PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE

A group photo of learners, mentors, and Deloitte team members

On Thursday, 15 May 2025, Modern Centric Holdings partnered with Deloitte Africa for their annual Volunteer Day, a day filled with impact, learning, and collaboration. The day was marked by significant events that demonstrated the power of strategic partnerships to create lasting social change. Our team and learners with dis-Abilities engaged in practical farming activities at the Modern Centric Farm in Kempton Park, our leadership team, including our General Manager Hlengiwe, played a pivotal role as the Master of Ceremony at the farm event. Meanwhile, our Managing Director of Modern Community Foundation Revel Harris participated in a leadership address at Deloitte’s headquarters, further highlighting the importance of purpose-driven initiatives.

Learners harvesting fresh spinach, proud of their achievements and new skills.

The farm activity was part of Deloitte annual Volunteer Day initiative and by partnering with Modern Centric Holdings, the day was about focusing on empowering learners with dis-Abilities enrolled in Plant Production 3, supported by Deloitte’s sponsorship. The learners actively participated in planting seedlings, harvesting spinach, and exploring sustainable gardening practices. Guided by experienced mentors, they learned about the resilience of spinach, understanding that proper harvesting involves picking leaves without uprooting the entire plant. This lesson underscored the importance of sustainability and careful resource management in farming.

In addition, learners explored the world of succulent plants, guided by Zitshalele. They explained that succulents are climate-friendly because they require minimal water and are capable of absorbing carbon dioxide, making them an eco-friendly gardening option suitable for urban spaces like windowsills. These activities not only provided practical skills but also fostered confidence and a sense of achievement among the learners.

Throughout the day, learners engaged in planting, watering, and harvesting activities within greenhouses. They also participated in engaging breakaway sessions with their mentors from Deloitte, discussing their learnerships, challenges, and career goals. These mentorship exchanges created meaningful opportunities for guidance and personal growth. Each learner received goodie bags sponsored by Modern Centric and Zitshalele, symbolizing appreciation for their efforts and potential.

Hlengiwe, our General Manager at Modern Centric Holdings, served as the Master of Ceremony at the farm. Her leadership ensured that the event flowed seamlessly, creating an engaging and inspiring environment for all participants.

While the farm activities took place, the managing director of Modern Community Foundation, Revel Harris, delivered an impactful address at Deloitte’s headquarters. His keynote focused on Social Entrepreneurship and emphasized how purpose-driven leadership and innovation can address societal challenges. His talk inspired the young participants enrolled in Deloitte’s Youth Development Program, reinforcing that social entrepreneurship is a vital tool for creating positive change. 

Revel Harris, delivering the keynote address at Deloitte headquarters, inspiring young minds with the power of social entrepreneurship

Revel highlighted the importance of partnerships between corporations. Such collaborations are powerful drivers of sustainable development. His message was clear: when organizations work together with community-focused programs, they can deliver solutions that are impactful, sustainable, and aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This day demonstrated how strategic partnerships can generate meaningful change. Deloitte’s support and commitment to purpose have been instrumental in empowering learners with dis-Abilities and promoting inclusive agripreneurship. Their involvement has shown that when corporate responsibility meets grassroots action, real progress becomes possible.

Reflecting on the day, it’s evident that collaboration, mentorship, and shared purpose are key to driving social impact. We extend our deepest gratitude to Deloitte Africa for their unwavering support. Your partnership has helped us unlock opportunities and inspire hope among learners with dis-Abilities, reinforcing our belief that inclusive growth is achievable when we work together.

"COLLABORATION IS THE NEW INNOVATION"- ZAKHELE MGOBHOZI (Founder and Group Managing Director of Modern Centric Holdings)