The Astral journey with Seriti Institute (NPC) began in 2020 in Standerton when we approached them to assist us with community development and consultation. What started with household surveys, food parcel deliveries during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the beginnings of trust-building has grown into something truly meaningful.
Seriti has brought on other partners to support the Astral vision of “uplifting the communities in which we operate”, such as the Social Employment Fund (SEF) and National Youth Service Programme (NYSP) , Citi Foundation, and The DG Murray Trust (DGMT). Together we have created over 3 250 work opportunities in Standerton, of which 90% have gone to youth and 71% to women.
Astral directly support the local sewing project and has a nursery on farm 3 that has two tunnels of seedlings.
On the 18th of September, the 3rd Annual Farmers’ Day was held at the Standerton Show Grounds and celebrated growth, resilience and community spirit. Farmers, community members, and partners came together for a day that highlighted collaboration, innovation, and the future of agriculture.
This year’s theme, “Rooted in the land, growing with the market”, set the tone for the event.
Agricultural showcases, interactive youth empowerment exhibits, and children’s entertainment through the “aRe Bapaleng Jolly Even” kept the grounds alive with activity and energy.
Exhibition spaces were filled with stalls offering practical farming tools, sustainable agricultural knowledge, and access to market opportunities. The aim was clear: Strengthen agriculture, empower youth, and support local livelihoods.
What has been achieved in Standerton serves as a blueprint and an inspiration to other areas of South Africa that together we can build resilient communities and shape sustainable farming futures.
