Young people with a passion for food and farming sought for NFU Student & Young Farmer Ambassador programme

The popular NFU Student & Young Farmer Ambassador Programme – which has regularly featured Harper Adams students – has opened applications for this year.

Ambassadors need to have a passion for food and farming and will help to represent the voice of the next generation in agriculture in 2024.

The 12-month programme has been running successfully for almost five years, giving its participants the chance to speak up for British agriculture, learn more about the industry and develop a range of skills.

Successful applicants will have the opportunity to represent the industry at important agricultural and political events, showcasing the significance of British food and farming to the nation.

Among the Harper students who are current Ambassadors are Darcy Johnson, Liz Tree and Rhea Auton.

Speaking when she took up the post, Darcy -  a second year BSc (Hons)Agri-Food Marketing with Business student from near Westbury in Wiltshire – said: “I think teaching and raising awareness through the school curriculum is pivotal in tackling world issues we currently face.

“Making people more aware that the way this country produces food is to some of the highest welfare and safety standards in the world is something I want to achieve. Whether that’s getting into school to do presentations, or working to create media that can be broadcast to schools, it is certainly an area I’d be keen to build on.”

And Rhea – who is studying a BSc (Hons) Rural Enterprise and Land Management degree and has spent the last 12 months on her industrial placement year in Norfolk – added: “The agricultural industry provides so many opportunities and I believe it is really important to share this.

“I have a passion for education and want to put back into the agricultural industry - I want to help re-connect people with food, farming and the environment - helping to lead the way and leaving a legacy.”

NFU President Minette Batters said: “The Student & Young Farmer Ambassador Programme offers a brilliant opportunity to develop your knowledge of food and farming, while helping to garner public support for British agriculture. It runs alongside our other programmes, including the Poultry Industry Programme, Cereals Development Programme and Sugar Industry Programme to support the next generation.

“Student & Young Farmer Ambassadors play an instrumental role in engaging and educating young people, representing the voice and views of young farmers and highlighting the work that needs to be done to raise our domestic food security up the political agenda.

“Over the past four years, we’ve been fortunate to have outstanding ambassadors who have gone on to achieve remarkable things, and I would encourage anyone thinking about applying to take up the excellent opportunity. I am immensely proud of the programme’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity, as embracing diversity is vital for the success of any industry and we welcome anyone who is passionate about agriculture and wants to champion the future of farming.”

This year, the application process is a little different to ensure it is accessible for everyone. To apply, prospective ambassadors are asked to send in a video application, giving them the opportunity to show their personality, communications skills and enthusiasm for farming.

Anyone interested in finding out more – and making their application – can do so via this link.