Margerite van Niekerk, who farms with her husband, parents and brothers on a farm in Brits, in the North West province, believes her calling is simple and precious. She lives each day with meaning, with her soft feet on hard ground and a heart that remains open so that she can grow, believe and live fully.
Margerite was recently announced as the winner of the Bayer Boervrou van die Jaar 2025 competition in the Farmer’s wife category.
Jan van Rensburg Farm is a family farm where Margerite, as the eldest of three children and the only daughter, plays an active role daily. All three Van Rensburg children are married, and together with their spouses, all six of them work full-time on the farm.
She enjoys working with her family immensely. Everyone plays their part, and together they build something bigger than themselves. Margerite admits that it is not always easy, but there is a deep joy in their togetherness, the teamwork and the pride they feel when something turns out well.
She says farm life teaches you gratitude, humility and perseverance. She loves being part of something, something with roots and something that gives life.
What do you farm with?
Our family farm consists of both vegetables and grain crops as part of a planned crop rotation practice. The crops we plant include, among others wheat, soybeans, beets, carrots, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, onions and cabbage.
What is your role?
I am involved in the daily management aspects of our farm. I fulfil the role of financial administrator and manage the office work behind the scenes. Although I do not work in the fields myself, I am actively involved in the planning and organisation that make the farm’s operations run smoothly. My responsibilities include handling orders – such as seed, crop protection products and packaging materials. I also draw up work schedules, prepare reports and communicate with suppliers and clients. I work closely with our accountants on data processing and the financial management of the farm.
My role is supportive, yet strategic: I help bring order, structure and forward planning to the bigger picture of farming.
What does a typical day on the farm look like?
My day always starts with the Lord – without that foundation, nothing works right.
At 06:30 my husband, brothers, father and the foremen gather for a short morning meeting and prayer. At the same time, I make sure the children get to school on time. After that, I have a quick cup of tea with my mother, father and one of my brothers as we discuss the day’s plan. By 08:00 I am in the office, where I focus on administration, planning and the financial side of the farm.
Margerite easily changes her heels for boots, as there is no such thing as “it’s not my job” on the farm.
Tell us more about yourself and your family
My biggest supporter is my husband. I am married to my high school sweetheart and this year we have been celebrating 13 years of married life together. It is something I am incredibly grateful for. We have two beautiful children who fill our hearts with pride and gratitude every day. As a family, we love the outdoors – whether it’s on the farm, a Saturday braai with friends or just a peaceful walk in the veld. I am a very creative person and love to be busy with my hands. Creativity is not just a hobby for me, it’s a way of life and giving, a way of showing love and life.
What are your biggest challenges?
The unpredictability of nature is one of the biggest challenges in our farming practice. Droughts, excessive rain or rain at the wrong times can disrupt weeks or even months of planning in the blink of an eye. This instability not only puts pressure on production, but also on decision-making and financial sustainability.
Who or what inspires you?
My greatest inspiration comes from my faith. It is my anchor and guide, especially when things get tough. In a world where so much is out of your control, it gives me peace of mind and hope to face each day with confidence. My parents also inspire me deeply. My husband is a great source of calmness and motivation in my life.
What makes you happy?
Happiness for me does not lie in big things. It is in the morning sun rising over the fields. It is in a cup of coffee in the silence before the day’s rush begins. It is in the laughter of my children, the support of my husband and the knowledge that every day I can work with my hands and my heart on something that matters. Happiness is living with dedication, farming with gratitude and serving with love.
What does your community involvement entail?
As a family farm, we are involved in our community in various ways. I see it as a privilege to live out my calling in this way. We support two children’s homes, Cornerstone and Ons Huis, in our area. We make a monthly contribution and provide fresh produce for these children.
Our workers largely come from the Skierlik community. Our farm provides fresh vegetables to support the feeding scheme of the Tebogo Primary School.
We are also involved with a local organisation, Soetdoring, that offers practical help in emergency situations like fire, storm damage and crisis assistance within the community.
I also help Laerskool Olienpark, where I serve as the financial chairperson on the governing body.
It is not just a duty for me. I live out my calling and can serve others with open hands and an open heart.
Can you offer advice to other farmers’ wives?
Anchor yourself in the Lord every day. You don’t have to carry everything yourself, because He carries you. When the days are long and difficult, remember you were called to this life, to this land, to these people.