FARMING Connect’s prestigious personal development programme, the Agri Academy 2018, was launched at the Farmers’ Union of Wales annual farmhouse breakfast at the Pierhead Building, Cardiff Bay (details elsewhere in this section).
The Agri Academy, now approaching its sixth year and with 165 alumni, brings together some of the most promising people making their way in the agricultural industry.
Regularly quoted by past candidates as ‘life changing’, this unique programme which takes place over three short, action-packed study periods and overseas visits, gives individuals selected the inspiration, confidence, skills and networks they need to become future rural leaders, professional business people and entrepreneurs. The application window for this year’s programme, will be open until March 30.
Comprising three distinct elements, the Agri Academy’s Rural Leadership programme, a collaboration with the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society, aims to develop and nurture a new generation of leaders and individuals keen to influence the rural agenda at a local, regional and European level. The programme provides an opportunity to meet and lobby Welsh Government and EU figureheads in Wales and Brussels and to learn the skills of effective public speaking and media interviews.
The Business and Innovation programme offers personal and business development which can help candidates meet the challenges of farming in the future, as they network and learn from top industry experts and business leaders at home and during an overseas study visit.
The Junior Academy, which is run in partnership with Wales YFC, is targeted at young people aged 16-19 considering a career in the food and farming industries. For many it provides focus and guidance at a time when many are uncertain about their future career pathways and a prestigious, relevant notch on their CV.
Speaking at the launch, the Cabinet Secretary said “The Agri Academy’s format of three short but intensive study periods has a proven track record of paving the way to business success for so many of its alumni.
“Farming Connect’s unique personal development programme of training, mentoring, support and guidance gives both young entrants with ambitious aspirations and more experienced individuals a fantastic opportunity to share ideas and learn from each other in a success-driven, supportive environment.
“There are no barriers for eligible individuals wanting to apply for the Agri Academy and there are no limits to what you can achieve if you put your mind to it.
“The Agri Academy has been a hugely valuable stepping stone, which has inspired so many individuals, giving them confidence and necessary networks to plan for their future as successful rural leaders, professional business people and innovative farmers.”
Einir Davies, development and mentoring manager with Menter a Busnes, which delivers Farming Connect on behalf of the Welsh Government, says that the 2018 programme promises exciting opportunities.
“Candidates selected for the Business & Innovation Programme will visit Iceland, a country renowned for its innovative approach to environmental management, renewable energy and sustainable farming methods.
“Iceland has a similar topography to Wales with its combination of lowland, upland and coastal farms and it is self-sufficient in meat, eggs and milk,” said Ms Davies.
Rural Leadership Programme candidates will meet figureheads and policy leaders from the Welsh Government and visit the European Parliament in Brussels.
Branwen Miles (24), a candidate for the Rural Leadership Programme in 2017, grew up at her family’s organic dairy farm near Haverfordwest.
Branwen, who was recently appointed to a policy role with CLA Wales, studied French and international politics at Aberystwyth University, which involved her spending a year working in Strasbourg.
“I can’t believe how much confidence I gained through the Agri-Academy, and I know that the new friends and many business contacts I made will stand me in good stead in years to come.
“A particular highlight for me was visiting the European Parliament in Brussels, where our group met many high-ranking EU officials and heard at first hand their views on agriculture, and their opinion on the future as the UK plans its exit of the EU.”
Branwen’s father Dai was one of the Agri-Academy’s first intake of students, and so a persuasive advocate when his daughter first mentioned applying.
“I’ve always known that I want a career which involves me in the policy side of agriculture, rather than grass roots farming.
“I would advise anyone wanting a career in agriculture in Wales to apply for the Agri Academy. Not only has it given me a very relevant notch on my cv, the training, mentoring and new network of friends has been immensely empowering.
“I enjoyed university and I’ve had a number of interesting jobs since I left, but the Agri-Academy has contributed hugely to my sense of ambition and focus and I’m so grateful to have been part of it.”
For further information, eligibility criteria and to download application forms, visit www.gov.wales/farmingconnect
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