Jacob Pongolani lived in a rural area of Zimbabwe called Gokwe, where he and his family faced many challenges, including the lack of access to electricity, medical facilities, and cell phone networks. Despite these hardships, they managed to survive by placing their faith in God, trusting that He would provide for their future needs. An opportunity arose for Jacob to study in America, and in the fall of 2022, he left Zimbabwe and traveled to Plymouth, Indiana, to attend Â鶹ÊÓƵAPK's Ancilla College to study agriculture. Although the transition to America was difficult, Jacob had one goal in mind—to make a difference in this world.
At Marian, Jacob's dedication and hard work quickly became evident. One aspect that particularly sparked Jacob's interest was the hands-on work in the greenhouses. Engaging in vertical farming with hydroponics, he found a method that would be incredibly beneficial upon his return to Zimbabwe. The differences in soil quality between his home country and Indiana made this approach to farming particularly relevant and useful.
Jacob plans on using his agriculture degree in Zimbabwe to address the lack of basic resources in his home area. Previously, he raised rabbits and chickens and grew vegetables mainly for his family's consumption. Now, he aims to make a broader impact by teaching community members organic farming methods. These cost-effective techniques eliminate the need for expensive synthetic fertilizers and chemicals, promoting self-sufficiency and economic stability within the community. Jacob's mission is to empower others with the knowledge and resources they need to thrive.
His commitment to giving back is also evident in his role as an ordained preacher in the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe. Alongside teaching community members, Jacob plans to support them with startup kits that include chickens, coops, feed, meat rabbits, and cages. Given the scarcity of job opportunities in his country, these kits will provide people with the means to start their own agricultural projects, ensuring food security and income for the future. Jacob's dedication to his community is inspired by his own experiences of hardship.
To further this mission, Jacob and his wife Patience have established Pongolani Outstretched Hands. This mission aims to identify needy families, teach them farming techniques, evangelize, and help them start and manage agricultural projects. Rather than providing cash donations, they empower families with knowledge and resources, fostering long-term self-sufficiency. One of their primary objectives is to engage with the youth, steering them away from drugs and criminal activities.
Jacob's fascination with organic farming methods during his time in the agriculture program at Â鶹ÊÓƵAPK was pivotal. He learned about hydroponics, vertical farming, and using worm-casting tea as a natural fertilizer—all of which he plans to implement in his community. His practical experience in the greenhouses—planting, weeding, making biochar, and repairing equipment—equipped him with the skills necessary to become a proficient farmer.
In addition to his studies, Jacob also contributed to the Marian community by helping coach the men's soccer team. Before attending Â鶹ÊÓƵAPK, Jacob had limited knowledge of professional agriculture and its global significance. "The education I received provided me with the skills and professionalism needed to approach agricultural activities effectively," he said. He now understands how agriculture interacts with other business sectors and benefits the global community.
Reflecting on his journey, Jacob offers advice to other international students: "There is no better university in the world than Â鶹ÊÓƵAPK. Â鶹ÊÓƵAPK is not just a learning institution; to me, it's a family." This captures the supportive and nurturing environment that Jacob experienced at Marian.
Jacob graduated with the Class of 2024 and has since returned to Zimbabwe. Thanks to a local Christian group in Plymouth, Indiana, he was able to purchase residential land in Kwekwe, a town with modern facilities and good schools for his children. Jacob's journey demonstrates that, despite life's challenges, faith in God and perseverance can lead to significant achievements. He continues to serve God and support others who face similar hardships, embodying the Franciscan values that guided him throughout his education.