THE National Farmers’ Federation and Woolworths have congratulated the inaugural recipients of the AgriEmpower Scholarship, including Andrew Powne, a farm manager from Queensland’s Goondiwindi region.
The transformative scholarship, made possible through collaboration with Woolworths, provides $20,000 to seven ambitious young Australians to help further their efforts of achieving their agricultural ambitions.
Andrew Powne, a farm manager from Queensland’s Goondiwindi region, said he was honoured to be selected in the cohort.
“This opportunity will allow me to learn from industry leaders and apply new insights to help drive our vision of a regenerative, carbon-positive supply chain,” Mr Powne said.
“This experience will not only support my personal development but also strengthen the capability of our team and help us contribute meaningfully to the future of Australian agriculture.”
National Farmers’ Federation President David Jochinke congratulated the cohort of change-makers.
“This is a life-changing opportunity for these impressive recipients,” Mr Jochinke said.
“It’s an equally huge opportunity for the ag sector, which will gain so much from these driven individuals.
“We can’t wait to see where the AgriEmpower Scholarships lead the recipients.”
Mr Jochinke said it was difficult to only select seven people from such a large group of applicants.
“We were blown away by the volume and calibre of applications,” Mr Jochinke said.
Woolworths retail managing director, Annette Karantoni, said the AgriEmpower Scholarships provide a unique opportunity to help empower young innovators to self-direct and super-charge business ideas, ambitions and success.
“We’re proud to partner with the NFF and help deliver this significant investment in these young Australians, that will help drive a strong future for our agriculture sector,” she said.
Scholarship recipients have 18 months to strategically invest their $20,000 funds in courses, conferences, professional development, and/or overseas exposure for the purpose of gaining new ag-related skills.
Beyond the funding, participants will gain exclusive access to dynamic events and workshops curated by Woolworths and the NFF, further cementing their journey as future leaders.
