Hortgro Chairman’s Award 2023: Dr Leon von Mollendorff

Dr Leon von Mollendorff, born and raised in Oudtshoorn, studied B.Sc. Biochemistry at the University of Stellenbosch. In 1991 he completed his doctorate. His research: Postharvest factors involved in the development of woolliness in nectarines is considered ground-breaking and for this, he received special recognition from the University of California in the USA.

Leon worked at the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) for several years in various leadership positions. In 2006, he was appointed as the first general manager of Culdevco, where he served until his retirement in 2022. In the industry, Leon is known as an excellent researcher, formidable negotiator, marketer, and someone who knows how to build networks. His work as a cultivar developer is highly regarded worldwide.

In his spare time, Leon is a winemaker of stature and a self-confessed wine snob! He also had the good fortune to marry Gerda and today is the proud grandfather of three grandchildren. Leon, it was a privilege for Hortgro to be able to work with you and have you as a friend. The time has come for other adventures such as driving your Bushlapa on roads less travelled.  Good luck in the future. The industry is going to miss you.

 Caption: The Chairman’s Award was presented by the Hortgro Chairman, Nicholas Dicey, and Dr Leon von Mollendorff.

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