In 2016 Okeito Thompson experienced a severe setback when dozens of his goats died from an unknown disease.

He, however, he did not allow the tragedy to derail his efforts in farming.

“The death of the goats affected us tremendously. At the time we lost a lot of kids, pregnant females and ram goats. We had to go back to the drawing board and diverted to something else,” explained Thompson.

Today he is a successful cattle farmer, operating in Colley Mountain, Manchester on property he co-owns with Gevaughn Gayle. His foray into agriculture was virtually inevitable as his grandparents were cattle and crop farmers.

“From a tender age I used to see my grandparents involved in farming. Gradually, as I grew, I developed a passion for it. I remember when I was about six years old, I told my mother that I wanted a tractor to go out and work on the farm. So, by venturing into agriculture, it was a family tradition and a legacy that I wanted to carry on,” Thompson told the Jamaica Observer.

Thompson is involved in beef production and weaners. He also does some cash crops including sweet potato, pumpkin and carrot, and goat rearing on a small scale.

Said Thompson: “I always wanted to show persons the importance of agriculture. It is a good thing for the nation, because a lot of the things that we import we should be producing ourselves. That is how we will be able to grow the economy.”

The 26-year-old is quite active in his community. The Social Development Commission (SDC) took an interest in him, and connected him with the 4H Club where he learnt about cattle rearing and crop production, along with recording keeping and accounting. With the knowledge gained from 4H, Okeito started his cattle farm.

Concerned with the decline in active farmers in the community, Thompson started the Border United Community Club, a community initiative which deals with the holistic development of community members. The aim is to change the perception of farming, encouraging young people to view agriculture as a career.

“Farming is a lucrative business and it is a fulfilling career. There is easy access to information from many organisations to assist you. So, if it is something that young persons wish to get into, don’t be concerned about getting your hands dirty; just look at the big picture. You are providing for the nation and your family while reaping the rewards financially,” said Thompson.

A practising Christian for the past three years, Thompson is also a minister at Hephzidah Missionary Church in Manchester. He is also involved in local and overseas missionary work.

One of 12 young people selected as Nutramix Youth in Agriculture ambassadors for 2019, Thompson said the accolade signifies appreciation for his work in agriculture.

“It shows that I am appreciated and doing something good in agriculture. Imagine, a young man like me from the country being chosen as an ambassador for agriculture. Wow, it has been a great feeling. Not many young people have this kind of opportunity,” he gushed.