Who we are
Our family lived in Zimbabwe (formerly Rhodesia), a country with a very proud, rich, and complex history. In the early 2000s, political tensions grew and made life increasingly challenging for all citizens regardless of race, religion, or financial standing. As a result of the political and economic instability, it became clear that we needed to move to the US to ensure our safety and embrace the promise of a better future.
In 2007, we claimed political asylum in the US, and after a very rigorous and demanding process, we were honored to be granted citizenship in 2014. The opportunities that our new life has afforded us are beyond anything we could have imagined in Africa, nothing short of a blessing, giving new meaning to the phrase: “The Land of Opportunity.”
Eastland
Life in Rhodesia offered a wonderful, and wholesome upbringing around horses, cattle, and sugar cane fields. Sports have also been an integral part of our family; cricket, rugby, tennis, squash, and polo, but sadly not golf – which is still evident in my game today! The principles that I gained from sports, at home, and in boarding school were preparation for my service in the British South Africa Police (BSAP), the Police Anti-Terrorist Unit (PATU), and ultimately the Close Security Unit (CSU). As an ongoing demonstration of my commitment to service, I proudly represent rhino and elephant conservation organizations as a trustee.
Following my national service, my first company was founded: Zimbabwe Ranching Corporation, an agricultural supply company specializing in irrigation for farmers. Next, Eco Chemicals was formed, a chemical manufacturing company that sold a range of cleaning products for industrial and residential use. In 2008, after immigrating to the US, new opportunities arose in the golf course and agriculture industries. After working for multiple prominent fertilizer companies, it was a natural progression to build a company and gain market share in the industry. Our family company, Turf Aid has a simple and sincere mission, we provide and promote a range of high-quality products and services that align with our mantra: Ecologically Conscious, Economically Aware.
Kieran
After immigrating to the US, I attended Ringling College of Art and Design and graduated with a BFA in Illustration. Following my graduation, I worked in several freelance, sales, recruitment, and marketing positions in the creative world. The experience that I gained in these roles inspired my interest in business development and strategy. To gain a deeper understanding of traditional business principles and acumen, I attended Northwestern University and graduated with a master’s degree in Business Leadership. My thesis focused on the development of non-profit and for-profit organizations working in strategic alliance to drive mutually beneficial, sustainable growth. During this project, I worked closely with conservationists, inter-organizational specialists, and non-profit leaders to better understand the practices needed to meet their objectives through the lens of responsible resource use.
My interests and experience integrate seamlessly with the agronomy industry and offer a unique perspective to drive innovative business sustainability. By partnering with businesses that offer products and services in line with our mission, we broaden opportunities and promote growth for all represented parties. The products we represent demonstrate our commitment and approach to efficiency, cost reduction, and responsible resource use.