An exceptional girl, Kendall Rae Johnson, has captured hearts across the United States after becoming the country’s youngest certified farmer, and now she has been awarded a full scholarship to South Carolina State University at the age of 10.
Her story is not only inspirational; it is a powerful example of how early passion, discipline, and community impact can evolve into academic recognition.
Kendall's Story and How She Did It
Kendall’s journey began at just three years old, when she planted cucumbers, peppers, and tomatoes alongside her great-grandmother, Laur Williams, in their small patio garden. What started as a simple bonding ritual quickly unfolded into a deep-rooted passion.
By age six, Kendall had earned her farming tract ID from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, officially becoming the youngest certified farmer in the country, a remarkable scholarly milestone demonstrating mastery, curiosity, and consistent learning beyond her age.
As she grew, so did her vision. Kendall now manages nearly an acre of farmland in Southwest Atlanta, cultivating everything from blueberries and peaches to collard greens and okra.
EXPLORE SCHOLARSHIPS
Through her family’s urban farming business, aGROWKulture, she teaches other young people about agriculture, sustainability, and entrepreneurship.
Her impact extends even further. Kendall founded Kendall Rae’s Green Heart, a nonprofit focused on youth leadership and sustainable farming education.
She also authored a children’s book, “My Farm Biz,” empowering more kids to embrace agriculture.
This remarkable achievement earned her the 1890 Agriculture Innovation Scholarship from South Carolina State University, an HBCU committed to developing future leaders in agriculture and related fields.
The award, valued at $83,800, covers tuition, fees, room, and board, marking a new beginning for Kendall. She received the surprise announcement during her visit to the university, where she met President Alexander Conyers.
“We were genuinely inspired by Kendall Rae’s focus and maturity. It’s not every day you meet a 10-year-old who talks about microorganisms, crop counts, and longhorn cattle. She’s remarkable,” Conyers said.
Though she is still several years away from attending college, Kendall plans to continue homeschooling while running her farm.
She also travels across the U.S. as a USDA National Urban Agriculture Youth Ambassador, visiting land-grant universities to promote youth farming leadership and financial literacy.
For Kendall, the scholarship is more than an award; it is a promise of what the future holds. “I like helping the community out with fresh fruits and vegetables, and I love learning different farming techniques,” she shared.
Follow our Social Media Channels:
- WhatsApp: Scholarship Region WhatsApp
- Facebook: Scholars Region
- Twitter: @scholarsregion
- Telegram: Scholarship Region