Adapted from an article on the Zanda McDonald Award website.
Judges of the Zanda McDonald Award, will crown not one but two winners for 2022 – one from each side of the Tasman.
Now in its eighth year, the prestigious award recognises young future leaders working in agriculture and provides an impressive prize package centred around a tailored trans-Tasman mentoring programme. The eight talented finalists – include four from New Zealand, three of whom are graduates of the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme.
All finalists have been selected for their passion for the industry, strong leadership skills, and the contributions they’re making in the primary sector.
The four New Zealand finalists are 2019 Kellogg Scholar Katie Vickers, Head of Sustainability and Land Use for Farmlands;
2017 Kellogg Scholar Olivia Weatherburn, National Extension Programme Manager for Beef + Lamb New Zealand;
2017 Kellogg Scholar Rhys Roberts, CEO of market garden and farm operation Align Farms;
and Adam Thompson, director of Restore Native Plant Nursery, beef farmer and mortgage broker.
Richard Rains, award chairman says whilst Covid-19 travel restrictions drove the change to two awards, it has also created an exciting opportunity. With the increase to eight finalists and two winners, the award can have a positive impact on more future leaders in Australia and New Zealand.
“We’re thrilled to be able to invest in the future of all eight finalists, and our two winners, and help with their future career and personal development. Our judges have again been overwhelmed with the level of talent and capabilities of this years’ candidates,” said Rains.
The Australian and the New Zealand winner will each pick up an impressive personal development package, including a personalised mentoring trip in Australia and New Zealand (when travel allows), up to $10,000 worth of tailored education or training, media coaching, and other mentoring and industry opportunities.
Winners will be announced in November 2021.
