The award, established in 2012, celebrates passionate and innovative young people in the agricultural industry.
The New Zealand Institute of Primary Industry Management (NZIPIM) manages the logistics of the award, and the winner is announced at the annual NZIPIM Conference.
The winner will receive $3,000 toward their professional development: options include a research project, an overseas study tour, professional development programmes/ qualifications or electronic equipment.
Farmax chief executive Gavin McEwen says the number of entrants is hugely positive for the industry, as it means there are more incredible young people fueling New Zealand’s agricultural sector – and more being recognised for their hard work as well.
“Young people bring vitality, courage and new perspectives in the face of challenging times for our industry, and without them we simply wouldn’t be able to flourish.
“The calibre of entrants for this year’s awards is outstanding and I know the judges will have a hard time selecting a single winner,” says McEwen.
Nominees are from businesses such as Greenlea, AgFirst, BakerAg, Pamū, Zoetis, DairyNZ, Ravensdown and many others around the country, and organisers are pleased to see a diverse pool of nominees including an even split of males and females.
Jo Finer, chief executive of NZIPIM, says they are delighted to partner with Farmax to recognise young talent in the sector and support their professional development. “There are fantastic career pathways for primary industry professionals and this award is a great way to showcase the opportunities.”
Winner of the 2018 Farmax Emerging Professional of the Year Award, Laura Keenan, says that winning the award “was integral to providing a pathway for my development and also exposed me to so many networks which I still utilise each and every day”.
“Not only is this award a fantastic way to celebrate our industry, it provides a great sounding board for those new to their sector to start thinking about their professional development in a more strategic way,” adds Laura.
Finalists will be announced next week and the award will be presented at the NZIPIM conference dinner at Sky- City Hamilton on August 29.
