RWAS Rural Leadership Programme application window now open

The application window for the RWAS Rural Leadership Programme 2024-25 is now open.

Aimed at inspiring future leaders in agriculture, the programme will provide an action-packed course of training, mentoring, support and guidance over three intense residential sessions, following the candidate selection day in April 2024.

Taking part in the Leadership Programme is an opportunity of a lifetime. A group of up to 12 delegates, will have the chance to make contacts with key industry figures and learn new leadership and communication skills in order to enhance their career and/or business aspirations.

Hannah Wright has recently completed the programme and describes the opportunity as an unforgettable experience.

“There isn’t one word that can describe the time I have shared with this special cohort. It’s been an incredible personal development journey that has broadened my knowledge and understanding of our agricultural industry both locally and internationally,” remarked Hannah.

The vast networks we have encountered have provided so much inspiration and motivation which has ignited more passion and belief within me for an optimistic future. A fascinating experience I’ll never forget.”

Programme delegates during a residential session in Cardiff

A fellow delegate of the 2023 cohort, Elen Williams encouraged others to apply for the programme.

“Take the opportunity with both hands and embrace the programme whole heartedly,” said Elen.

“You’ll learn new perspectives, learn from each other as well as the brilliant speakers and learn a lot about yourself in the process too. I’m so glad I took the opportunity to meet the incredible individuals I have and would encourage anyone interested to get involved with this brilliant programme!”

This year as part of the programme, delegates will have an opportunity to attend one of the most prestigious agricultural conferences in the world. The Commonwealth Agricultural Conference will be held alongside the Royal Highland Show in Scotland in June. If successful, delegates will be given the opportunity to attend the conference and meet emerging leaders from across the Commonwealth countries.

The Selection Day will be held on Wednesday, 10th April 2024, where candidates will be required to attend an introductory session of the Programme at the Royal Welsh Showground.

Successful candidates will be invited to the Royal Welsh Show Awards Ceremony on Monday 22nd July, where the Society will officially announce the successful candidates for the 2024-2025 RWAS Rural Leadership Programme.

The 2023-2024 Rural Leadership cohort at the Royal Welsh Show Awards Ceremony in July 2023

Delegates are expected to be fully committed to the programme and are required to attend each of the three residential sessions, taking place in May, June and October 2024. On successful completion of the programme, delegates will be invited to the Awards Ceremony Presentation at the 2025 Royal Welsh Show, to receive their certificate.

Apply for the Rural Leadership Programme

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Tuesday, 26th March 2024.

Download the application form in English or Welsh.

Completed applications should be emailed to: alison.harvey@ruraladvisor.co.uk

The Rural Leadership Programme is fully funded thanks to a generous legacy left by the late Mr N Griffiths and match funded by the Glamorgan County Advisory Committee (2023 RWAS Feature County).