From Panels to Potjies:
Animal Science Students Get Real About Careers at AgriCAREERConnect
Stellenbosch, South Africa – 24 July 2025
The AgriCAREERConnect Animal Industry MeetUp at Weltevreden Experimental Farm in Stellenbosch was anything but your average career day. With real talk from industry pros, practical advice, and a potjiekos cook-off to end the day, Animal Science students got a taste of what life after university could look like, literally and figuratively.
Industry Insights: What They Don’t Teach You in Class
Students joined two panel discussions with companies like Alltech, BKB, Etse Electronics, Mendel University in Brno (Czech Republic), Meadow Feeds, Kemin SSA, Studbook, and the Milk Producers Organisation (MPO). After the first round, students switched rooms, so everyone got a chance to meet all the panellists and ask their burning questions.
The advice was honest, practical, and sometimes surprising:
“Agriculture is not a standard practice; it’s a cultural practice. It’s social, it’s about people.” – Prof Francois Lategan, Mendel University
“Your knowledge is a small part. What drives business is relationships.” – Riaan van der Walt, Meadow Feeds
“Agriculture is family-oriented. Many farmers invite you to chat at their homes.” – Chanelle Steenekamp, Studbook
“In a small town, farmers don’t regard someone fresh from university. You have to prove yourself.” – Lize Marié du Toit, MPO
“Despite your strong knowledge, in the end it’s about how relevant you are. Do you really have that credibility?” – Prof Francois Lategan
“A higher degree is important if you want to go technical. If not, a Bachelor’s degree is often enough.” – John French, Alltech
“If you aspire to do a Master’s, do it. It’s two years of your life and you still have a 40-year career. But do it at a different university. Those 5–6 lecturers imprint on you a lot. Get yourself exposed to a wider industry.” – Francois van de Vyver, Kemin SSA
“All the practical work I did helped me a lot. I even extended it for no pay, just to build my network.” – Chanelle Steenekamp
“Holiday work is important; it can be beneficial when you’re with the right company.” – Brandin Sutherland, Etse Electronics
“Be confident in yourself. Everyone at the company was once where you are now.” – Andre Seegmuller, BKB
“Passion fuels success! Find something you’re passionate about and discover your own added value.” – Brandin Sutherland
“Find out the culture of the company. Every company has a personality, align yourself with its values.” – Riaan van der Walt
There was also solid advice on interviews, soft skills, and building your career:
“Be yourself, be confident. Ask questions in interviews—it shows you’re serious.” “Soft skills matter. Upskill with leadership courses or tools like Power BI.”
Potjiekos Cook-Off: From Career Talk to Cooking Teams
After the panel sessions, the energy shifted outdoors for a fun and competitive Potjiekos Competition. Five student teams received mystery ingredient boxes and had to cook their best potjie using the secret ingredient, Black Garlic Salt from Funky Ouma.
The winning team, Die Potkoppe, impressed the judges with a chicken and bacon potjie. One team even made their very first potjie ever, an impressive and tasty achievement! Prizes were sponsored by Agrijob and Funky Ouma, and the vibe was all about teamwork, creativity, and good food.
Top Takeaways for Students
Do your homework: Learn about the company before interviews. Culture matters.
Soft skills count: Communication, emotional intelligence, and adaptability are key.
Think ahead: If you’re considering a Master’s, explore different universities and projects.
Build your network: Internships, holiday work, and shadowing open doors.
Find your passion: It’s what keeps you going—and growing—in the industry.
Set boundaries: Your phone might always be on, but your time matters too.
Looking Ahead
With the AgriCAREERConnect events in Johannesburg, Stellenbosch, and Pretoria now wrapped up, reaching well over a thousand students, the excitement is still buzzing. These events sparked real conversations, new connections, and plenty of inspiration for students exploring careers in agriculture.
And we’re not stopping here. Plans for AgriCAREERConnect 2026 are already in motion, with fresh events, new industry partners, and even more chances to connect, learn, and grow. Watch this space: Visit Agrijob.co.za for updates, resources, and registration info. Whether you’re looking for internships, career tips, or your next big opportunity, your future in agriculture starts here.
Compiled by: Majella van der Arend