""We aim to create a mentorship ... not just hive off a bit of our farm." David Sonnenberg
In 2007, Diemersfontein launched its empowerment company, Thokozani, with 35 staff shareholders, including its white managers so as not to artificially split the workforce.
Each worker, with at least one year's service and a willingness to participate, was given R10 000 to R20 000 worth of shares in Thokozani depending on their seniority. It is conditional on them staying and working on the farm for five years. In addition, they have to devote 2% of their salary each month to buying more shares in Thokozani. The 2% monthly contribution, Denise (Director Business Development Thokozani) explains, is so that the workers recognise their side of the bargain which is to make a contribution according to their means.
"We're hoping that if people put their own money in they'll learn to be more careful with the assets of the business and feel an obligation towards it," says mr. Sonnenberg, "It comes with strings attached because the whole transformation exercise is about instilling mutual obligation and commitment." "I don't believe in grand gestures - in saying: "Here, have this farm you guys" – and I haven't been in a position to buy farms. We have to work with a model we can afford."
Each worker, with at least one year's service and a willingness to participate, was given R10 000 to R20 000 worth of shares in Thokozani depending on their seniority. It is conditional on them staying and working on the farm for five years. In addition, they have to devote 2% of their salary each month to buying more shares in Thokozani. The 2% monthly contribution, Denise (Director Business Development Thokozani) explains, is so that the workers recognise their side of the bargain which is to make a contribution according to their means.
"We're hoping that if people put their own money in they'll learn to be more careful with the assets of the business and feel an obligation towards it," says mr. Sonnenberg, "It comes with strings attached because the whole transformation exercise is about instilling mutual obligation and commitment." "I don't believe in grand gestures - in saying: "Here, have this farm you guys" – and I haven't been in a position to buy farms. We have to work with a model we can afford."