The next wave of female leaders in agriculture have met in the nation’s capital to kickstart their journey with the Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program.
The National Farmers’ Federation welcomed the 2024 cohort to Canberra for the initiative’s three-day introductory retreat.
The program, now in its seventh year, is designed to create a clear pathway for women to pursue leadership opportunities within the sector.
Acting Chief Executive Officer Charlie Thomas said across the three days, the 12 women met with parliamentarians and industry leaders, took part in practical personal and professional development sessions, and met their mentors.
“The Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program is the NFF’s flagship leadership initiative focused on the goal to double the number of women in agriculture’s leadership ranks,” Mr Thomas said.
“I’m always blown away by the calibre of women the program attracts and this year’s cohort has again set the bar high.
“I look forward to following their journey through the program and beyond as they each play a part in driving agriculture forward.”
An important part of the retreat was starting the mentoring program. The 12 mentees were matched with their mentor with whom they will complete a five-month intensive mentoring program.
Angela Hammond from Inverell in NSW has been matched with Diana Fear, CEO at Central West Farming Systems and Diversity alumna.
Following their first mentoring session on day two of the retreat, the pair agreed they would grow and learn from each other equally through the experience.
“I’ve ended up in accidental leadership roles and I want to gain support on how to be a better leader so my impact in agriculture can be even more positive,” Ms Hammond said on why she applied to the program.
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