At Sigma Farm, we believe people are the foundation of everything we do—from the orchards to the offices. One such person is Stephanie van Niekerk, who recently won first place in the regional OTPV Agricultural Worker Competition in the administrative category. But her story stretches far beyond a title—it’s a story of legacy, determination, and quiet leadership.
A Life Rooted at Sigma
Stephanie was just three months old when her family moved to Sigma. It’s where she grew up, learned the value of hard work, and developed the quiet strength that’s shaped her into the person she is today.
“I started working at Sigma during school holidays to help my mom and earn some money for school supplies,” she says. “It taught me responsibility early on. I’ve always liked helping people, and I have a real love for life—even small things like doing hair and nails bring me joy.”
A Mother’s Legacy
Stephanie’s mother, Susarah van Niekerk, worked at Sigma for many years. Ten years ago, Susarah herself won the same OTPV competition. When she passed away two years ago, Stephanie stepped into her role—without hesitation.
“It wasn’t a decision, really,” Stephanie says. “There was work to be done, and I knew this is what my mom would have wanted.”
Taking over her mother’s position came with deep emotions. “People still saw me as her daughter first. I had to find my own way while still honouring the work she did. But over time, I built my own voice.”
A Quiet Drive to Do More
For Stephanie, entering the OTPV competition was not about winning—it was about personal growth. “I wanted to show that admin work is just as important as what happens in the orchards. It keeps things moving and gives structure to everything else.”
She admits the process of preparing for the competition taught her a lot about herself. “I had to dig deep into my work—check processes, understand the systems, and make sure things were not just done, but done right.”
When her name was called as the winner, the moment was emotional. “I felt proud, thankful, and a bit overwhelmed. I thought about everyone who helped me get here—my colleagues, my family, and especially my mom.”
Representing Her Region, and Her Values
Stephanie will now represent the region at the provincial round of the competition. “It’s a big responsibility, and I’m proud to show what admin in agriculture really looks like. I want others to see that what we do behind the scenes matters.”
She hopes to keep growing in the next few years, both personally and professionally. “Maybe one day I’ll lead a team of my own. I want to keep learning, support others, and find ways to make the systems we use even better.”
More Than Just a Workplace
For Stephanie, Sigma isn’t just a job—it’s part of her identity. “I’ve been here my whole life. This place has shaped me, supported me, and helped me become who I am. It’s a community, not just a company.”
When asked what makes her proud to get up for work each day, her answer is simple: “Knowing that what I do matters—and that people trust me to do it well.”
Stephanie carries more than her mother’s legacy—she carries the values of Sigma: responsibility, growth, respect, and heart. We are proud to have her as part of the team, and even prouder to see her represent our farm and region with such humility and strength.