Coming into contact with biodynamics through her work at Parceval, Waterkloof’s farm manager, Marile de Beer, was inspired to enrol to study part-time with the Biodynamic Agricultural College based in the UK. Having graduated last year, the college shared the story of Marile’s journey: https://www.instagram.com/p/DbD58LKlka2/?img_index=1

What if farming wasn’t about control – but relationship?

For BDAC graduate Marile de Beer, that shift in perspective changed everything.

Now Farm Manager at Waterkloof in South Africa, Marile leads the cultivation of medicinal plants for the herbal pharmaceutical industry, while stewarding the farm as a living, biodynamic organism.

Her journey began with a pivotal moment in 2019:
“It wasn’t simply about growing plants—it was about working with living processes and understanding the farm as a complete organism.”

Since completing her Biodynamic Diploma in 2025, Marile has embedded biodynamics into every aspect of her work: from composting and preparations to grazing management and ecological observation.

But the most transformative learning wasn’t technical, it was perceptual.

“Biodynamics is not about recipes or techniques; it is about developing a relationship with the living world.”

Alongside managing Waterkloof, Marile contributes to medicinal plant research and hosts biodynamic workshops for her local community.

Her advice?
“Do it. Be prepared to ask questions, observe deeply, and remain open to learning.”

As more farmers seek resilient, life-centred approaches, stories like Marile’s show what’s possible when agriculture works with nature, not against it.