Empowering Communities Through Agriculture

At its core, Small Farm Cities create opportunities for people to thrive. The communities are equipped with greenhouses, fishponds, and affordable housing. Residents work in agriculture, and their earnings allow them to pay for homes through manageable mortgages. Over time, they achieve homeownership, building a more secure future for their families. Economies of scale are leveraged by employing local carpenters, plumbers, and brickmakers to reduce costs and make this dream attainable.The initiative goes beyond housing. Small Farm Cities provides access to clean water, Wi-Fi, and communal sanitation—critical infrastructure that enhances residents’ quality of life. This holistic approach ensures

families can focus on their work, health, and education, all while generating income through agriculture. The result is a thriving community that strengthens the local economy.

Expanding for Greater Impact

Leif’s vision is ambitious. His team plans to scale Small Farm Cities from small communities of 100 residents to hubs supporting thousands. As the project grows, Leif seeks to collaborate with experts in health, education, and sanitation to ensure these expanding communities have the support they need to flourish.

This vision aligns with Rotary’s mission to grow local economies by fostering job creation, education, and sustainable infrastructure. Small Farm Cities demonstrates how community-led economic development can uplift individuals and enhance the broader community.

The Role of Rotary’s Global Grant Scholarship

Leif’s journey was made possible by Rotary’s Global Grant Scholarship, a prestigious program designed to support individuals working within Rotary’s Seven Areas of Focus, including Growing Local Economies. This scholarship helped Leif develop the skills and network needed to launch Small Farm Cities.

Reflecting on the program, Leif emphasized how Rotary’s long-term engagement and shared vision set it apart. Rotary provides more than financial support—it fosters lasting relationships and encourages scholars to stay connected with Rotary’s global mission. For Leif, this scholarship was the foundation for a career focused on sustainable, community-driven economic solutions.

Leif also noted how Rotary’s global vision aligns with the work in Malawi. Both Rotary and Small Farm Cities bring together people from diverse backgrounds to improve their communities, creating lasting change through scalable, sustainable solutions.

Partnering for the Future

As Leif continues to expand Small Farm Cities, he is eager to partner with Rotary clubs and districts interested in supporting sustainable community building. He welcomes the opportunity to share insights, present his work, and explore new collaborations with those passionate about empowering local economies.

For those inspired by Leif’s story, Rotary’s Global Grant Scholarship offers an incredible opportunity to make a difference. The program supports individuals dedicated to solving real-world problems, whether through sustainable agriculture, economic development, or other areas of focus. Leif’s journey shows how Rotary’s support can lead to transformative change in communities around the world.

Conclusion

Leif’s work with Small Farm Cities is a testament to the power of community-driven economic development. With the support of Rotary’s Global Grant Scholarship, he has created a scalable, sustainable model that is revitalizing local economies in Malawi. His story illustrates how Rotary’s focus on empowering communities leads to lasting, meaningful change—and how continued collaboration between Rotary and entrepreneurs like Leif can further these efforts globally.