THE National Farmers Federation is encouraging women with leadership ambitions to apply to its Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program.

The NFF initiative is entering its eighth year and applications open on Monday 24 February for a month.

Only twelve women will be selected for the 2025 program. They will take part in a three-day leadership retreat in Canberra, be matched with an industry-leading mentor, and work towards personal and professional goals under the guidance of the DiALP team.

NFF president David Jochinke said more women are needed in the top echelons of agriculture organisations and businesses.

“The NFF has set a goal to double the number of women in leadership ranks by 2030 in the ag sector.

Sarah Stevens.

“This fantastic program enables women to elevate their careers, expand their networks, and drive meaningful change in agriculture,” Mr Jochinke said.

2024 DiALP graduate Sarah Stevens said applying for the program was one of the best decisions she’d ever made.

“The program gave me many things, but most importantly, it built my confidence,” she said.

“I learned to trust my instincts and recognise that my skills and knowledge have real value, both to others and to my industry.”

She credits the program for empowering her to pursue a major career move.

“That mindset led me to step up as Acting CEO at Gulf Savannah NRM, which has been an invaluable opportunity to further expand my skills and experience.”

Madie Hamilton

Madie Hamilton, 2024 Alumni, agreed the program could be a life-changing opportunity.

“Since graduating I’ve enjoyed a broadened perspective on leadership, the power that comes with embracing your unique strengths, and my heightened ability in dealing with complex challenges,” Madie said.

Madie also uses the valuable learnings in her C-suite role.

“Taking on the COO role of a national peak industry body, I have used the skills and networks gained throughout my journey on the program to excel in this new challenge.”

The two alumni said the friendships formed through the program have also improved their lives on a personal and professional level.

The NFF said the Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program is made possible thanks to the support of dozens of corporate partners.

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Source – NFF.