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“My name is Zokhanyo Bikani, known as Zozo. I was born in Idutywa, a small town in the Eastern Cape, and raised by my grandmother. She taught me a lot about gardening, using natural resources, and recycling materials, which sparked my love for gardening.”
Zozo Mushrooms & Veggies Projects was started by Zozo Bikani in 2021 and officially launched in 2024. Her projects combine a thriving business that sells fresh produce directly to customers with expert advice on growing mushrooms and vegetables.
Her professional career in agriculture started at Grootbos Private Nature Reserve when Zozo joined the Grootbos Foundation in 2011, where she expanded her organic farming knowledge. In 2015 she had the opportunity to fly to Cornwall, England, to visit the Eden Project which was a life-changing experience.
In 2016, while working at Grootbos, Zozo started her first farm in the industrial area outside Masakhane where she educated the community about the importance of growing food for themselves. She also provided the farm’s organic oyster mushrooms to the fine-dining restaurants at Grootbos. Her commitment to quality helped bring a touch of her farm’s freshness to the award-winning lodges.
Zozo was on a promising path to success when the global pandemic hit, abruptly leading to the closure of her farm in 2020.
In 2021, Zozo joined iMed Africa, continuing her quest to teach people in Masakhane, Pearly Beach, and Stanford about the importance of growing vegetables. While at iMed Africa, she restarted her farming project and registered it as Zozo Mushrooms & Veggies Projects.
"As they say, 'the rest is history!'"
Zozo’s Vision
As a single parent, Zozo strives to find ways to make an income and empower her community so that everyone, especially women, is self-sufficient.
Zozo’s plans for the future include starting an initiative for those struggling with addiction because she has learned that each person has a story and wants to give them a chance to improve their skills and find motivation.
Zozo Mushrooms & Veggies Projects grows oyster mushrooms and seasonal vegetables that are available for purchase directly from Zozo’s project.
Fresh Produce - Examples
Contact Zozo Mushrooms & Veggies Projects for more information about purchasing fresh produce.
Zozo Mushrooms & Veggies Projects runs monthly workshops and is available as a motivational speaker at events on request.
A workshop typically begins with an introduction to the importance and benefits of mushroom cultivation, followed by an overview of mushroom growth stages and different cultivation methods. Participants engage in hands-on activities such as preparing mushroom substrate and inoculating spawn.
After a break, there's a session dedicated to Q&A and troubleshooting common issues.
The workshop concludes with guidance on harvesting techniques, storage methods, and a summary of key learnings. Participants are encouraged to ask questions throughout, ensuring they leave with practical knowledge and confidence to start mushroom cultivation projects, of their own.
If there is a special request for additional workshops, Zozo will organise them more frequently or arrange a private workshop.
Zozo’s journey with Zozo Mushrooms & Veggies Projects is truly inspiring. Her remarkable path to success has touched many lives, leading her to share her story at youth and women’s events on request.
Contact Zozo to arrange a talk to hear her inspiring story firsthand!
Zokhanyo Bikani has gained recognition for her Zozo Mushrooms & Veggies Projects with various awards.
2024 - Best Subsistence Producer - Woman Entrepreneur Awards
2023 - Best Performing Woman PES Farmer - DALRRD Women Recognition Awards
"Thank you so much Zozo for an inspiring & interesting workshop, your willingness to share and uplift others makes this world a better place. Can't wait to see my little babies, all the best for your journey" Lynn
"Thank you for an inspiring workshop. I really enjoyed it. Keep up the good work. Proud of you Zozo." Emile
