Category: farming

Introduction

Success in agriculture requires more than just technical knowledge, but also patience, dedication and hard work. Simon Selwane’s story is a living example of this. Coming from a humble background, he made a name for himself in the field of agriculture with his perseverance and today he is one of the most successful farmers in Gauteng.

Early life and education

Simon decided to pursue a career in agriculture in 2000. He obtained a diploma in crop production from the Pretoria Technikon. He then did an internship at the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), where he got practical experience of modern farming techniques and crop research.

This internship was the first step in his career, which helped him understand the nuances of farming.

Early experience – 14 years of farm management

Simon managed an 18-hectare vegetable farm south of Johannesburg. Here he learned:

Soil management and correct use of fertilizers

Drip irrigation techniques

Pest control and organic farming methods

Crop selection and marketing according to market demand

During this time, he learned all aspects of farming hands-on and refined his skills.

Setting up his own farm in 2016

In 2016, Simon made his dream come true by setting up his own farm named “Tau Fresh Produce”. He focused on growing cucumbers, cherry tomatoes and herbs.

The special thing about his farming was that he used modern greenhouse technology and drip irrigation, which increased both the quality and yield of crops.

Challenges and their solutions

In the beginning, he faced many challenges:

Limited resources and capital

Weather uncertainty

Competition in the local market

Simon faced all these problems with the spirit of continuous learning and improvement. He started supplying his fresh vegetables to the local market as well as hotels and supermarkets.

Status Today and Future Plans

Today, Tau Fresh Produce is known as a leading vegetable producing farm in the Gauteng region. Simon’s hard work and strategy has made him a successful entrepreneur.

He also conducts seminars and training programs to make the youth aware of farming so that they too can adopt modern farming.

Lessons from Simon Selwane’s success

“The passion to fulfill dreams is more important than dreaming. Patience and constant hard work are the keys to success in farming.”

— Simon Selwane

Conclusion

Simon Selwane’s story proves that with the right education, experience and hard work, any farmer can turn his dreams into reality. Even if the beginning is small, success is definitely achieved if the purpose is big.

If you also want to make a career in farming, then take inspiration from Simon’s story and start today.

Location: Grafschaft, West Germany
Farmer: Matthias Leenen
Farm Size: 85 hectares
Technology Used: FJDynamics AT2 Auto Steer System

From Family Legacy to Modern Farming

Germany, known for its engineering and precision, is also a powerhouse in agriculture. Among its vast rural landscapes is a quiet revolution underway—led by farmers like Matthias Leenen, a new-generation grower who inherited his family’s 85-hectare farm in Grafschaft.

Matthias belongs to a long lineage of farmers. But unlike his forefathers, he faced the realities of managing complex field shapes, shrinking labor availability, and increasing input costs. Realizing traditional methods could no longer sustain growth, he turned toward precision agriculture to secure his farm’s future.

The Challenges of Traditional Farming

Farming 85 hectares may sound straightforward, but for the Leenen family, it meant navigating irregular plots bordered by sensitive fruit orchards. Using manual steering:

Fertilizers and herbicides were often applied unevenly.

Time was wasted re-aligning machinery in narrow, odd-shaped fields.

Labor costs increased, and precision was compromised.

As Matthias explained, “Every small overlap or gap added up—not just in wasted resources, but in lost yield potential.”

The Turning Point: Embracing the AT2 Auto Steer System

The turning point came in 2023 when Matthias attended Ökofeldtagen, an agriculture trade show in Germany. There, he saw the FJDynamics AT2 Auto Steer System in action.

Impressed by its performance and affordability, Matthias installed the system on his tractor. What followed was a dramatic shift:

Straight-line accuracy even in narrow and curved fields.

Time savings across sowing, fertilizing, and spraying.

Better input use and improved crop health.

Reduced fatigue, allowing more focus on farm management.

From potassium application to rapeseed sowing, the AT2 became an essential companion in every season.

Beyond Expectations: Planning for Expansion

By autumn 2023, Matthias had already planned the next step: purchasing a second AT2 system for his New Holland T5.110 Dynamic Command tractor. The confidence in the system was not just about convenience—it was an investment in sustainability and profitability.

“With the AT2, I can farm smarter, faster, and more precisely. It gives me a competitive edge,” said Matthias.

A Model for the Future of Farming

Matthias’s story isn’t just about adopting a new tool—it’s about embracing a mindset shift. Precision agriculture doesn’t mean abandoning tradition; it means enhancing it with data, technology, and innovation.

His journey shows what’s possible when old-world farming meets new-age thinking. It’s a story of balance between heritage and high-tech—a model not just for Germany, but for farmers across the globe.

Conclusion

In a rapidly changing agricultural world, those who adapt not only survive—they thrive. The Leenen family’s embrace of the FJDynamics AT2 system proves that even a farm with deep roots can grow into the future.

Whether you’re a farmer managing 5 hectares or 500, the message is clear: Technology is no longer optional. It’s the foundation of farming’s next chapter.

Alaska is one of the last frontiers in the United States, famous for its vast wilderness, freezing temperatures, and isolated communities. Among all these harsh elements, one family has kept a rare and precious tradition alive — dairy farming.

Scott Plagerman and his family run Alaska Range Dairy, the only commercial dairy farm in Alaska. Their story is one of grit, family unity, and innovation in one of the toughest farming environments in America.

A Family Legacy Rooted in Alaska

The Plagerman family began milking cows in Alaska in the 1950s. While dairy farming was once scattered across the state, many farms shut down over the decades due to Alaska’s brutal climate and high costs.

Scott grew up helping on the farm and inherited the responsibility of running it. Unlike dairy farms in temperate states, Alaska’s extreme environment made every aspect of the work a challenge.

Battling the Alaskan Elements

Operating a dairy farm in Alaska means facing:

Extreme Cold: Temperatures often drop below -40°F, requiring insulated barns and heated water systems to keep cows healthy.

Heavy Snow: Snowfall can isolate the farm for days, affecting deliveries and supply runs.

High Costs: Feed and equipment often must be shipped from the mainland, increasing expenses.

Limited Market: Small local population means less demand, requiring premium pricing for fresh milk.

Scott and his family have engineered creative solutions to survive these harsh realities.

Innovation: Key to Survival

To keep the farm running efficiently, Scott invested in:

Automated milking machines to reduce manual labor.

Climate-controlled barns ensuring cows’ health during long winters.

Solar panels and energy-efficient tech to lower operating costs.

Collaborations with local businesses for resource sharing and sales.

The Heartbeat: Family and Community

Alaska Range Dairy is a family-run operation. Scott’s wife, children, and neighbors share daily chores — from feeding and milking to equipment repair and deliveries.

Their teamwork has allowed the farm to thrive despite economic and environmental challenges. Scott hopes to pass this legacy to his children and inspire future generations.

Economics: How Does It Add Up?

Despite high costs, Scott’s farm maintains profitability.

Aspect Details

Monthly Milk Production ~5,000 gallons
Price per Gallon $3.50 (premium fresh local milk)
Milk Revenue $17,500 monthly
Additional Income $2,000 (calves, fertilizers, farm tours)
Monthly Expenses $15,000 (feed, labor, utilities, maintenance)
Monthly Profit $4,500
Annual Profit Estimate $54,000 (pre-tax/subsidies)

Government subsidies for remote farmers help offset Alaska’s high operating costs.

Beyond Business: Community Impact

Scott’s fresh milk helps reduce Alaska’s dependency on imported dairy, strengthening local food security. Farm tours educate residents about farming challenges in the state, fostering community support.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Dairy Farming in Alaska

Scott envisions his children continuing the farm and more Alaskan farmers adopting sustainable dairy practices. His story demonstrates that with perseverance, innovation, and community support, success is possible even in the most extreme environments.

“A man’s legacy is not what he builds with money, but what he builds with his hands, heart, and heritage.” – Ben Brown

Introduction

Ben Brown is a third-generation dairy farmer running the Brown Dairy Farm in Southside, Alabama, USA. For over 70 years, this family farm has been a symbol of dedication, faith, and resilience in American agriculture. Today, Ben continues that legacy — embracing modern technology while preserving the heart of traditional dairy farming.

Early Roots: A Family Farm Built on Faith

Ben’s grandfather founded Brown Dairy Farm in the early 1950s with just a few cows and a strong work ethic. As Ben puts it, “We weren’t rich in money, but we were rich in purpose.”

Growing up, Ben learned the values of discipline and responsibility — milking cows before school, feeding calves in the evening, and praying with his family at the dinner table.

Challenges Faced

Running a dairy farm in the 21st century isn’t easy. Ben has faced:

Volatile milk prices that often fall below the cost of production.

Labor shortages, making it tough to find and retain farm workers.

Climate unpredictability, with droughts impacting feed and pasture quality.

Debt and equipment maintenance due to rising operational costs.

But giving up was never an option. As Ben says, “Farming is not just a job, it’s a calling.”

Turning Point: Embracing Innovation

To survive and grow, Ben modernized his operations:

Installed automatic milking machines, reducing labor hours and improving milk hygiene.

Adopted solar power, cutting down electricity costs.

Used herd management software to track cow health, milk yield, and breeding.

Improved cow comfort with fans, sand bedding, and stress-free environments.

Daily Routine on the Farm

A day at Brown Dairy Farm starts at 4:30 AM and ends after sunset:

Morning milking of 60–75 cows.

Feeding and health checks for all livestock.

Maintenance of machinery and milking equipment.

Farm bookkeeping and sales coordination.

Evening milking and clean-up.

It’s hard work, but Ben finds joy in every moment.

Income & Economics

Ben’s farm produces over 20,000 pounds of milk per month. At an average price of $18 per 100 pounds, the estimated gross monthly income from milk alone is:

$3,600 – $4,000/month.

Additionally, Ben grows and sells melons, pumpkins, and watermelons, which generate seasonal profits between $10,000 to $15,000 per year. In 2021, he also received $28,118 in USDA dairy subsidies.

He reinvests much of this into:

Veterinary care

Feed and nutrition

Equipment upgrades

Community agricultural outreach

Impact on Community

Ben is deeply involved in his community:

Organizing farm tours for school children

Offering internships to young aspiring farmers

Hosting local food festivals with farm-fresh produce

Partnering with Alabama Farm Credit for agricultural awareness

Words of Wisdom from Ben

> “If it’s your dream, hold on to it. Don’t let the hard days steal your joy. Every sunrise is a chance to try again. Farming is faith in action.”

Conclusion: More Than Milk, It’s a Mission

Ben Brown’s journey reflects the reality of many family-run farms across the world — a beautiful blend of struggle, innovation, and spirit. His story isn’t just about dairy farming — it’s about purpose, perseverance, and passing on a legacy.

One Earth. Many Farmers. Countless Stories.

In the golden grasslands of Naseby, tucked away in Central Otago, New Zealand, lived a man who defied the conventional image of a farmer. Eden Hore, a rugged sheep and cattle farmer by profession, carried a secret passion that would eventually make him a national icon—not for his livestock or land, but for his love of haute couture.

The Man Behind the Farm

Born into a life of farming, Eden Hore managed a vast 5,500-acre property. His daily routine was not unlike other farmers in the region—early mornings, tending to sheep, fixing fences, and navigating the unpredictable weather of the Otago high country. But unlike others, Eden had an eye for glamour, color, and creativity.

While many spent profits on machinery or land, Eden began investing in something unexpected: fashion.

The Farmer Who Collected Gowns

In the 1970s, Eden began acquiring some of the most dazzling and extravagant garments made by top New Zealand designers. From feathered bodices to sequined evening gowns, his collection grew to include more than 200 pieces. He sourced them directly from fashion shows and designers, developing a keen eye for the cutting-edge and the avant-garde.

These weren’t ordinary clothes—they were statement pieces, the kind worn by models on runways, far removed from the gumboots and wool sweaters of rural life.

But Eden wasn’t collecting for vanity. He saw fashion as an art form, a powerful expression of identity and creativity. He believed that just because one worked with livestock didn’t mean they couldn’t also appreciate elegance and beauty.

A Shed of Sequins

Eden converted part of his farm into a private fashion museum. In what used to be a tractor shed, gowns now shimmered under spotlights, their sequins glinting against the backdrop of bare wood and corrugated iron.

Visitors to the farm were stunned. Imagine driving through paddocks, passing sheep and farm dogs, only to step into a room filled with silk, velvet, and couture glamour. The contrast was surreal—and magical.

Innovation Beyond Fashion

Eden wasn’t just creative in clothing. He was also a pioneer in agricultural innovation. He was one of the first farmers in New Zealand to use aerial top-dressing—spreading fertilizer from the sky to increase pasture growth. He also captured wild deer and started farming them, laying the foundation for New Zealand’s now-thriving venison industry.

Earnings & Lifestyle

In the 1970s and ’80s, a high-country sheep and cattle station of Eden’s size could yield profits of NZD 50,000 to 100,000 annually—a substantial amount back then. Eden smartly split his income between improving the farm and expanding his fashion collection.

Despite his wealth and fame, Eden never left the land. He remained grounded, living in modest farm buildings, surrounded by the same hills and sheep he always had.

Legacy Lives On

After Eden passed away in 1997, his collection was preserved by the Central Otago District Council. Today, it remains a significant part of New Zealand’s cultural history. Fashion historians and tourists alike are drawn to his story—a story that bridges the gap between rural grit and urban glamor.

His garments are now featured in exhibitions, media coverage, and even digital archives, ensuring Eden’s bold vision lives on for future generations.

Why Eden Hore’s Story Matters

Eden Hore’s life challenges our assumptions about farmers. He showed us that you can work the land and appreciate art. That farming is not a limitation, but a canvas for expression.

In an industry often perceived as conservative, Eden’s flamboyant fashion sense was not just tolerated—it was celebrated. He left behind not just wool and meat, but a message: farming is diverse, surprising, and full of hidden brilliance.

Inspired?
Follow World Farmer Story for more unbelievable yet true tales from the fields, pastures, and greenhouses across the globe. Because every farmer has a story, and the world deserves to hear it.

Location: Jaén, Andalusia, Spain
Farm Name: Olvero Estate
Crop Focus: Organic Picual Olive Oil
Generations: 6th generation olive farmer

Introduction: A Story Rooted in Olive Trees

In the heart of southern Spain, where sun-drenched hills stretch endlessly and the scent of olives fills the air, lives a farmer whose story runs as deep as the roots of the trees he tends. José Luis García Ramírez, a sixth-generation olive farmer from Jaén, Andalusia, is not just preserving a family tradition—he’s redefining it.

A Family Legacy Born from the Soil

José Luis was raised in a home where olives weren’t just a crop—they were life. His father and grandfather passed down not only groves of ancient olive trees but also the wisdom of sustainable farming, the rhythm of seasons, and the pride in producing something pure.

From early childhood, José worked in the groves before and after school. “The olive trees were my playground, my school, and eventually my purpose,” he says.

The Turning Point: Embracing Sustainability

By the time he took over the family farm, climate change, soil degradation, and modern challenges had started to affect traditional farming methods. But José didn’t give up—he adapted.

Through participation in the ARTOLIO Project (a Mediterranean cross-border initiative), he brought revolutionary changes to his farm:

Installed solar panels to power the olive mill.

Introduced a new irrigation system covering 33,000 sq. meters, saving over 30% of water usage.

Adopted organic practices and eliminated all chemical pesticides and fertilizers.

Implemented temperature sensors to control oil extraction quality.

“I realized we had to protect what we loved—our land, our trees, and our future.”

Launching the ‘Olvero’ Olive Oil Brand

In 2016, José launched his own boutique olive oil label—Olvero—to connect directly with global customers. He focused on Picual olives, native to Andalusia, known for their bold flavor and high antioxidant content.

Today, Olvero olive oil is:

100% certified organic

Cold-pressed within hours of harvest

Sold across Europe, USA, and Japan

Winner of 13 international awards

Earnings & Business Model

José Luis earns from three key streams:

1. Direct Olive Oil Sales (retail and wholesale)
2. Agri-tourism: Hosting farm visits and olive oil tasting experiences
3. Workshops: Educating other farmers on sustainable farming methods

Average Annual Profit: €80,000 – €120,000 (approx. ₹72–108 lakhs INR)
Main Expenses: Labor, solar maintenance, certifications, export logistics

Challenges Faced

Unpredictable rain and heat waves in Andalusia

Global olive oil price fluctuations

Competition from mass-market producers

But with resilience and innovation, José turned each obstacle into opportunity.

Vision for the Future

José dreams of turning Olvero into a symbol of sustainable luxury—olive oil that’s both premium and planet-friendly. He is also mentoring young farmers and pushing local cooperatives to adopt eco-conscious methods.

“Olives are not just food—they are culture, health, and heritage. And it’s my duty to protect them.”

In His Words

“Each drop of Olvero olive oil carries the story of my ancestors, my soil, and my love for the land. That’s something no machine or factory can replicate.”

Conclusion: Why This Story Matters

José Luis García Ramírez is a living example of how tradition and technology can co-exist to create a sustainable, profitable, and deeply meaningful farming legacy. His story reminds us that the future of farming lies in respecting the past while innovating for tomorrow.

Introduction

In the heart of the Philippines lies Nueva Ecija, famously known as the “Rice Bowl of the Philippines.” This region is home to thousands of rice farmers whose hard work feeds millions. Among them is Mang Juan, a 48-year-old farmer whose journey from traditional farming to sustainable innovation offers hope and inspiration to many.

Early Life and Traditional Farming

Mang Juan inherited his 3-hectare family farm from his father. For years, he followed the conventional rice farming methods passed down through generations — manually transplanting rice seedlings, using flood irrigation to keep the fields submerged, and relying heavily on chemical fertilizers and pesticides to protect his crops.

Despite his hard work, yields were inconsistent. Weather patterns were becoming unpredictable, and pests often damaged his crops. His income barely covered his costs, making it difficult to invest in better technology or equipment.

The Turning Point: Learning Sustainable Practices

Mang Juan’s turning point came when he attended an agricultural workshop organized by the Philippine Department of Agriculture. There, he learned about the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) — a modern method of rice cultivation that requires fewer seeds and water, and encourages healthier plants through wider spacing and younger seedlings.

Excited by the potential to increase yields and reduce costs, Mang Juan decided to give SRI a try. He gradually replaced chemical fertilizers with organic compost and used biopesticides made from natural ingredients. He also adopted Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) irrigation, a technique that reduces water usage by allowing fields to dry intermittently rather than staying flooded all the time.

Challenges Along the Way

The transition wasn’t easy. Many neighbors were skeptical of Mang Juan’s new methods. He had to learn and experiment patiently, sometimes facing crop failures during the initial trials. Climate change further complicated matters, with erratic rainfall and occasional droughts threatening his crops.

However, Mang Juan’s determination never waned. He sought advice from agricultural experts and joined a local cooperative focused on sustainable farming practices. Through community support, he refined his techniques and learned to adapt to changing conditions.

Harvesting Success

Within two seasons, Mang Juan’s hard work paid off. His rice yields soared from an average of 4 tons per hectare to nearly 7 tons per hectare — a significant improvement. Because he used less water and fewer chemical inputs, his farming costs dropped considerably, increasing his profit margins.

Moreover, Mang Juan began marketing his rice as organic, tapping into the growing demand for healthy, chemical-free food in nearby urban markets such as Manila. His rice fetched a premium price, allowing him to invest in a small solar-powered water pump, which further reduced his energy costs and increased irrigation efficiency.

Giving Back to the Community

Today, Mang Juan is more than just a successful farmer; he is a community leader and an advocate for sustainable agriculture. He actively trains other farmers in Nueva Ecija, sharing his knowledge of SRI and organic farming practices. Through the cooperative, he helps farmers access fair prices and sustainable markets.

His story has inspired many in his region to embrace innovation while respecting the environment — a crucial balance in the face of climate change and growing food demands.

Conclusion

Mang Juan’s journey from a struggling traditional farmer to a successful innovator highlights the power of knowledge, resilience, and sustainable farming. His story is a beacon of hope for farmers across the Philippines and the world, proving that embracing new methods can lead to better yields, healthier soils, and improved livelihoods.

As the global population grows and environmental challenges intensify, stories like Mang Juan’s remind us that innovation in farming is not just about technology — it’s about community, adaptation, and respect for nature.

Farmer Name: Lokeswara Reddy
Location: Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh, India
Farm Size: 10 acres
Primary Crops: Groundnut, pulses, and seasonal vegetables
Technology Used: CropIn SmartFarm (via Syngenta Foundation)
Profit Before Technology: ₹5,000–10,000 per acre
Profit After Technology: ₹20,000+ per acre

Introduction

Anantapur is one of the driest districts in India. For generations, farmers in the region have struggled with erratic rainfall, declining soil fertility, and limited access to accurate agricultural advice. One such farmer, Lokeswara Reddy, was determined to break the cycle of low productivity and poor income — and he did so by embracing space technology.

Challenges Before Adopting Technology

Before 2019, Lokeswara was cultivating groundnut and pulses on his 10-acre farm using traditional methods. However, he consistently faced:

Poor timing of sowing and irrigation due to lack of weather insights

Crop damage from pests and diseases

Low yields due to ineffective fertilizer application

Inconsistent income — between ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh for the whole farm

A Game Changer: CropIn’s SmartFarm Platform

In 2020, Lokeswara was introduced to CropIn SmartFarm, a satellite-powered farm monitoring tool implemented by the Syngenta Foundation India.

The system offered:

Satellite images and data to monitor crop health remotely

Alerts on ideal sowing periods and weather predictions

Guidance on fertilizer and irrigation schedules

Early warnings about pests and diseases

This real-time decision-making support allowed Lokeswara to manage his land with precision — something he had never experienced before.

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Impressive Results

Over the next two growing seasons, the impact was dramatic:

Yields increased by 30–40% due to better resource management

Wastage of fertilizers and water reduced by 25%

Profit per acre jumped from ₹5,000–10,000 to over ₹20,000

He saved money on inputs and earned nearly ₹2–2.5 lakh annually, a significant boost in rural India

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More Than Income: Empowerment Through Information

Lokeswara didn’t just improve his earnings — he became a resource for nearby farmers. With a smartphone and WhatsApp updates from CropIn, he started helping others in his village understand how to use technology to transform their farms too.

He now participates in local agri-tech workshops and farmer producer organizations (FPOs), encouraging the next generation to look at farming not just as tradition, but as a data-driven profession.

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Conclusion: A Model for Smart Farming in India

Lokeswara Reddy’s story highlights the immense power of combining traditional farming knowledge with modern agri-tech tools. His success proves that with the right guidance and technology, even farmers in the most drought-prone areas can turn their fortunes around.

As India pushes toward a Digital Agriculture Mission, Lokeswara stands as an inspiration for small and medium farmers across the country — a real example of how satellite data can sow the seeds of prosperity.

Name: Sammy Selim
Location: Kericho, Kenya
Farm Size: Small-scale coffee farm (approx. 5 acres)
Specialty: Coffee cultivation enhanced by AI tools
Impact: Nearly tripled coffee yield within 2 years
Annual Income Before AI: Approx. $1,200
Annual Income After AI Adoption: Approx. $3,500

The Challenges of Small-Scale Coffee Farming in Kericho

Kericho, Kenya is known for high-quality tea and coffee. However, small farmers like Sammy Selim face:

Limited access to expert advice

Pest and disease issues

Unpredictable weather

Need to increase productivity on limited land

Sammy’s farm was struggling to generate sufficient income, averaging about $1,200 annually from coffee sales.

Embracing AI Technology for Smart Farming

Sammy adopted AI-powered tools:

Virtual Agronomist: Personalized advice on fertilization, irrigation, and pest control based on satellite and weather data.

PlantVillage: Diagnosed crop diseases via photos and provided treatment recommendations.

This gave Sammy farm-specific guidance that was previously unavailable.

Remarkable Results and Income Growth

Within two years:

Coffee yield nearly tripled thanks to improved pest control and optimized fertilization

Costs of inputs reduced by 15% due to precise recommendations

Harvest quality improved, attracting better market prices

Annual income soared from about $1,200 to $3,500

This income boost improved Sammy’s living standards and allowed reinvestment in farm improvements.

What Sammy’s Story Means for Other Farmers

AI tools provide expert advice remotely where extension services are lacking

Data-driven decisions lead to better yields and profits

Small-scale farmers can sustainably increase income without expanding land

Conclusion

Sammy Selim’s journey from Kericho shows how combining tradition with modern AI technology can transform farming and livelihoods. His success inspires other small-scale farmers in Kenya and beyond to adopt innovative tools and improve their futures.