Small Seeds, Big Dreams: How a young farmer turned support into growth and independence

Like many African youth, 24-year-old Keziah Danjuma, a smallholder farmer from Pyatta village in Nigeria, once faced an uncertain future, struggling to access opportunities that could help her build a better livelihood. After completing secondary school, Keziah aspired to further her education but faced financial constraints. She decided to start farming to save money for her education while supporting her parents and siblings. With a small push in the right direction, she proved that even the smallest seed, whether planted in the soil or in someone's potential, can grow into something transformational.

With 70% of Sub-Saharan Africa under the age of 30 [UN], young people like Keziah represent a significant demographic. Yet, many of these young people face limited opportunities, particularly in rural areas where unemployment and financial instability are widespread.

“I saw my fellow ladies complain they did not have money, and I was in the same situation. I thought farming would be a way for me to get out of this situation, and I hoped to be able to start a small business someday,” Keziah says.

From harvest to hustle

After joining the One Acre Fund program, Keziah received farming supplies and was trained on effective farming techniques. For her first harvest, she got six bags of maize. She kept four to feed her family and sold two for 80,000 Nigerian Naira (50 USD). But instead of spending all her income, she made a decision to invest in a shoe-selling business.

Community and peer impact

Keziah’s success is not just her own— it is rippling through her community, inspiring other young people to see farming as a viable and empowering livelihood. 

“I believe that through what I am doing, I am able to inspire other young people to farm. When they see my harvest and the business that I have started, they will also be engaged,” Keziah says. 

Through leading by example, Keziah is shifting mindsets, proving that with the right support, farming can be a path to financial independence rather than a struggle for survival. 

“One Acre Fund is already helping young people in our community by providing access to farm supplies on credit. Many of the young people don’t have capital or stable jobs; but with this support, we can grow our own crops, earn an income, and become financially independent,” Keziah says.

Give a little, grow a lot

Looking ahead, Keziah’s dreams continue to evolve. She plans to expand her farmland, save enough money to further her education, and diversify her income by planting fruit trees. What started with a simple donation has allowed Keziah to access farming supplies on credit, which in turn meant she could grow maize, start a business, and build a vision for a more secure future.

The path to financial independence for smallholder farmers like Keziah can be unlocked with just $25—the amount needed to provide a farmer with essential supplies for an entire farming season. On average, farmers supported through One Acre Fund earn at least 40% more income on their land, and can reinvest that into their families and strengthen their communities.