The search for the next generation of Future Young Leaders in agrifood is underway

In its fourth year, the Program is designed to build the capabilities of emerging leaders from across Oceania and Asia, who are dedicated to the continuous improvement and success of Australian agriculture and its value chains.

AgriFutures General Manager, Global Innovation Networks Harriet Mellish says the program recognises the contributions of young industry leaders in our food, fibre and fuel production systems, and provides them with the support systems, networks, and connections to thrive in their careers.

“The Future Young Leaders Program is a unique experience where we provide the opportunity to connect bright minds with industry experts and peers, to nurture innovation and share their ideas and research on an international platform,” Ms Mellish said.

“The program is searching for participants who are passionate about agriculture and want to be part of the driving force behind ensuring Australia is a leader in accessing and adopting innovation.”

As Ms Mellish explains, AgriFutures is encouraging applications from individuals of all backgrounds, locations across Australia, regardless of whether they have roots in regional Australia or a background in agriculture.

“If you are between the ages of 18-30 and you have a valuable innovative idea, innovation or research related to the agrifood tech sector, we encourage you to apply.

“By extending our invitation to apply to those who may not have considered applying we open new channels of possibility and collaboration for Australia’s agrifood innovation.”

2019 Future Young Leader Rayali Banerjee said the program was transformative and helped drive her passion to create meaningful diversity and inclusion programs for the agriculture sector.

Reagan Ruppell, evoke^AG. Future Young Leader on stage at evoke^AG. 2019

“Being a part of the Future Young Leaders Program gave me a global platform and empowered me to share my ideas, by addressing and educating a room of 1,000 people,” Ms Banerjee said.

“Through the program I was able to drive a pipeline of diverse talent into the ag sector by working directly with university networks to engage students from varying educational backgrounds.

“Over the course of my career, I have continued to advocate for and embed diversity and inclusivity across various industries.

“The support and encouragement I gained from AgriFutures and the agriculture industry during my time as a Future Young Leader is something that I am incredibly grateful for.

“Being a part of the Future Young Leaders program was definitely a career-defining moment. In part, it helped kickstart my career in agriculture with a multinational agribusiness off the back of my presentation at the evoke^AG. conference.

“Young people have a unique opportunity to contribute to exciting opportunities in Australia’s agriculture sector particularly in innovation and sustainability where new ideas are needed. I strongly recommend those interested in the program to apply.”

The Future Young Leader recipients will get the opportunity to work with an industry professional to refine their presentation skills, confidence, and prepare them to take to the stage at evoke^AG. 2024 in Perth.

Following the event, Future Young Leaders will work with the program mentor to collaborate on the development of a strategic plan around key goals, coupled with a final focused placement, learning, and/or development opportunity.

Applications are now open and will close Monday, 4 September 2023.

For more information on how to apply for the Future Young Leaders Program, visit evokeag.com/futureyoungleaders.

Early bird tickets for evoke^AG. 2024 are available until Thursday, 31 August 2023. Following a sell-out event in 2023, AgriFutures is encouraging delegates to secure their tickets, flights, and accommodation early. Tickets can be purchased via evokeag.com/evokeag-2024/.