Meet The Team: Wilton Sikhosana
Spier is home to a diverse bunch of passionate people, doing what they love, and committed to making a difference every day. The green fingered nursery manager Wilton Sikhosana grew up in Pongola, KwaZulu-Natal, and has worked at Spier for the past decade. Together, he and his team have grown and planted millions of indigenous plants on the farm.
What do you love most about your job?
I’ve always enjoyed working with plants.
What’s the best thing about Spier?
Spier’s all about the people – it’s like we’re a family. That involves treating each other with respect. Spier also takes good care of the environment.
What is your greatest strength?
Working with plants – collecting seeds and germinating them. I’ve got green fingers – some people find growing plants very difficult, but for me it’s easy.
How do you make a positive difference to the environment?
We’re restoring and rehabilitating the farm’s ecosystem by growing and planting indigenous plants.
How do you make a positive difference to your community?
I share knowledge and teach my team of 20 (as well as casual workers) how to grow and plant.
What’s the most valuable advice you’ve ever received?
Be friendly wherever you go.
Who inspires you?
I’ve learnt a lot from the landscape architect Patrick Watson – he designed Spier’s River Walk which features many kinds of proteas.
What do you get up to when you’re not at work?
I love watching soccer – my favourite team is the Kaizer Chiefs.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would that be?
I wish people would work together to tackle climate change.
Where is your favourite part of the farm, and why is it your favourite?
My favourite spot is along the river. Here the seeds we planted have grown to become trees that three times my height. That is really amazing – seeing this gives me more energy and motivation.
What’s your favourite season?
Spring – when you can see all the flowers in bloom.
What’s the key to being happy in life?
Have a positive attitude.
What are you proudest of having achieved?
My family: I’ve got two boys.