On October 11, 2024, Chester Fisch captured hearts and took first place at the Agri’s Got Talent 2024 finals at Dawn Mountains, Simondium. Chester delivered an unforgettable performance with Michael Jackson’s “The Way You Make Me Feel” and a powerful rendition of Sam Cooke’s classic, “A Change is Gonna Come.” His exceptional singing, dynamic dance skills, and on-stage charisma earned him the coveted AGT title.

Chester, a seasonal wine industry worker from Mountain Ridge, Wolseley, speaks passionately about agriculture’s future, saying, “People need to eat and that is why farming is important. I want to contribute towards promoting agriculture, especially amongst the youth.” Inspired by his journey with AGT, Chester aims to further his music career while supporting young artists to grow their talents.

AGT 2024 recognized more outstanding talent with Chanthel Boonzaaier from DGB Franschhoek placing second, and Sandile Mathebula of Macdaring Farm, Nelspruit securing third. Lungelo Sithole, representing KMI Farming in Nelspruit, received a special award from the Afrikaans Language Council for her moving performance in isiXhosa, singing Zahara’s “Xa bendingena Mama.”

Now in its 11th year, Agri’s Got Talent celebrates and uplifts South African agricultural workers. Founded by Hortgro in 2013 and sponsored by Hortgro, the Citrus Growers’ Association, South African Table Grape Industry, SA Wine, and the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, the competition provides a platform for contestants to develop and share their talents. Through AGT, participants bring skills back to their communities and shine as the backbone of the agricultural industry.