Faith like potatoes: for the Naicker family, joy is found in hard work and gratitude

FROM packing potatoes at sunset to nurturing bright marigolds for kavady, the Naicker family has turned their everyday life into a source of inspiration for thousands on TikTok.

At the heart of the account is 47-year-old Naven Naicker, a bookkeeper, electrician and farmer from Johannesburg, alongside his wife Julie, 46, and their daughters Zoe, 12, and Phoebe, 11.

Together, they document their journey of faith, farming and family life, proving that simple living can still capture a global audience.

“We are a fun loving bunch. We enjoy the simple things in life. The less technology the better. We encourage being in nature. Always grateful and blessed to be a blessing to others,” said Naicker.

Farming was not originally part of the family’s long-term plan. When jobs became scarce, the Naicker’s had to make difficult decisions.

“Honestly we had no choice when jobs became scarce. We had to pay school fees, the bond, buy groceries and take care of our parents. So failing was not an option. Also we had the land to farm,” Naicker explained.

What began as a practical solution quickly grew into a calling. Today, their days are tightly scheduled and purpose-driven.

“I wish I could say we start at 4am by milking the cows, but education comes first. My kids get ready for school and clean up after their new puppy Drogo and then mom drops them off. 

“I am on the farm, telling workers what is to be done, then by 5am I am off to my second job. At 6pm we load our vegetables like dhania and spinach to deliver to JHB Market. By 8pm we sleep to be fresh for the next day to start again.”

Despite the demanding schedule, the family finds joy in the rhythm of farm life.

“We love waking up to the sounds of the birds, fresh air, peace and quiet, but sometimes that gets drowned by my daughter's loud voices.

“Having to eat fresh vegetables from the ground is a win, not forgetting watching everything growing is amazing. This was new to me,” Naicker added.

Although they are proud Christians, the Naicker’s also grow marigolds for kavady, embracing the cultural diversity around them while remaining steadfast in their beliefs.

“Our faith is no secret, we are proud Christians and we are not scared of any challenges on the farm and TikTok.

“Farm life is a learning curve but an amazing one and we want to inspire everyone out there to take the leap of faith. Start that business, take a risk, you will be surprised by your own strength but in all things put God first.”

Naicker was quick to credit their success to divine grace.

“The harvest went in our favour from the start so the potatoes are perfect. This was only by God's grace. We saw a local need here and met it. We always try and help where we can.”

The family’s entry into social media happened almost by accident.

“We joined TikTok and made a video after the ‘momager’, my wife, entered a cooking competition and the rest is history,” Naicker said.

Their content ranges from harvesting perfectly formed potatoes to packing fresh dhania and spinach for market deliveries, as well as showcasing the planting of marigolds.

But beyond farming, it is the laughter, sibling banter and visible family bond, especially the energy brought by Zoe and Phoebe, that resonate most with viewers.

“Hopefully we have a positive impact through our videos. I do not believe that money makes life happen. It makes life comfortable. We just love sharing our experiences with the world.”

Farming has not been without challenges. Weather patterns, insects and soil quality constantly threaten their crops. 

Yet, for the Naickers, success is measured in more than profit.

“Between early mornings, school runs, market deliveries and tending to both our children and crops, we have built a life rooted in faith, resilience and community. Through our TikTok platform, we aim to remind others that joy can be found in hard work, gratitude and stepping boldly into the unknown,” added Naicker.

The POST