What started as a way to avoid sitting at home has now become a full-time business for Thato Phalatse from Kroonstad in the Free State. As the director and CEO of a successful poultry venture called Egg On, Thato has developed a thriving mix farming business that specializes in poultry and egg production. The company was established in 2015, shortly after Thato completed his film and television studies.
Struggling to find a job, he decided to utilize a 4.2-hectare plot of land that his mother had acquired, sparking his passion for agriculture.
Realizing the demand for eggs and their marketability, Thato jumped into egg production. With limited funds, he invested in materials to build chicken cages and purchased 100 chicks, raising them until they were ready to lay eggs. His business officially took off when community members became aware of his selling eggs, which motivated him to continue pursuing his passion.
Significant support came in 2022 when the Free State Department of Agriculture recognized Thato’s efforts. After visiting him, the department funded the construction of a 1000-broiler house and assisted him with feeds and farming equipment, including a tractor and various ploughs.
This support played a pivotal role in his growth, allowing him to expand and meet the increasing demand for his eggs.
In 2023, Thato was the first runner-up in the Youth in Agriculture Awards, where he competed in the smallholder category. The recognition fueled his passion further, and he reinvested his prize money back into the business.
With the help of the department, he has grown to manage 2000 hens and employs four individuals, two of which are students on practical placements. It brings him joy to create job opportunities, especially for young people.
Thato expressed his gratitude towards the Free State Department of Agriculture, acknowledging that his business would not be where it is today without their support.
“Under the leadership of Mme Elzabe Rockman, the department assisted me through funding and I received 2000 capacity chickens, a tractor, farming equipment and because of that help from the department of Agriculture, my business saw a huge boost. That inspired me to re-enter the Youth in Farming awards, on the same small holder category and this time I won in 2025,” Said Thato.
His journey has also led him to assume the role of the provincial chairperson for youth in Agriculture and Rural Development. Recently, he attended an agriculture workshop in China, focusing on cultivation techniques and income growth.
“I would like to thank the Free State Department of Agriculture for the support they gave me. I am really grateful, my business would not have been where it is if it was not for the support I got from them.” he said.
With ongoing support and dedication, Thato continues to make significant strides in the poultry industry, demonstrating the impact of hard work and community assistance.
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