MEC Alan Winde on Western Cape's search for agri-professionals

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The event is co-sponsored by the Western Cape Department of Agriculture and Shoprite.

Winners will be chosen in 11 categories, including best irrigation specialist, agri-processing specialist and technical operator. Over 6,000 agriculture employees have entered the competition since 2002. MEC Winde said the competition was aimed at honouring excellence in the sector.

"Like we celebrate the heroes of our sportsfields, we need to celebrate the heroes of our economy. Our agri-professionals play a vital role in ensuring that the produce delivered to our shelves, and to outlets across the world, is of a very high standard. They are helping us to grow this sector, and together, we are building a sustainable economic future."

Jerome Thompson, the 2014 winner, said he has had a busy schedule since he scooped a top prize last year. Thompson beat out stiff competition from more than 1,000 entrants in 15 regions. Part of his win included a cash prize and an overseas trip.

Thompson, a manager at a farm in Kanonkop, will be travelling to France to meet with agri-businesses in the next few months.

"Since I won the competition, residents in my area recognise me and people turn to me for advice. My goal is to start my own business. I also want to make a real difference in my area and would like to start a centre for development," said Thompson.

This year regional competitions will be held in the following areas:

Berg River

Breede Valley

Horsemanship

Durbanville

Elgin, Grabouw, Vyeboom, Villiersdorp

Franschhoek

Hexvallei

Klein Karoo

Koup (Central Karoo)

Langeberg

Olifants River

Overberg

Piket-Bo-Berg

Stellenbosch

Swartland

Witzenberg

The first regional winner will be announced at a ceremony in Witzenberg in July. The provincial competition, where the overall winner will be announced, takes place in November.

Western Cape Economic Development and Tourism