The NFU is calling on young people with a genuine passion for British food and farming as it opens applications for the Student & Young Farmer Ambassador Programme 2024.
The 12-month programme offers a unique opportunity to advocate for British agriculture, learn more about the industry and develop skills, with successful applicants able to fly the flag for our industry at important agricultural and political events.
To make the application accessible for everyone, this year the NFU is asking for video applications, giving each potential Ambassador an opportunity to show their personality, communication skills and enthusiasm.
NFU president Minette Batters said: “The Student & Young Farmer Ambassador Programme offers a brilliant opportunity to develop your knowledge of food and farming, while helping to garner public support for British agriculture. It runs alongside our other programmes, including the Poultry Industry Programme, Cereals Development Programme and Sugar Industry Programme to support the next generation.
“Student & Young Farmer Ambassadors play an instrumental role in engaging and educating young people, representing the voice and views of young farmers and highlighting the work that needs to be done to raise our domestic food security up the political agenda.
“Over the past four years, we’ve been fortunate to have outstanding ambassadors who have gone on to achieve remarkable things, and I would encourage anyone thinking about applying to take up the excellent opportunity. I am immensely proud of the programme’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity, as embracing diversity is vital for the success of any industry and we welcome anyone who is passionate about agriculture and wants to champion the future of farming.”
Student & Young Farmer Ambassador Hannah Cuthbert 2022/23 said: “The Student and Young Farmer Ambassador Programme has connected me with amazing individuals who share my passion for agriculture. Together, we’ve shared ideas, discussed our vision for the future of British farming and made a tangible impact over the past year. The programme has also provided opportunities to attend fantastic events, share my experiences and boost my confidence along the way.”
Applications are open now and those interested can apply here. Ambassadors should be an NFU Student & Young Farmer member aged between 18 and 26. Applicants should be located in England and Wales, have a vested interest in the future of farming and be available to attend all events with confirmed dates.
The current timetable for the 2024 Ambassadors is as follows:
- January 2024 – Two-day induction at NFU HQ in Stoneleigh
- February 2024 – Attend both days of the NFU Conference at the ICC in Birmingham, including political sessions, workshops, sector breakouts, a formal dinner and an overnight stay
- March 2024 – Spend a day with regional colleagues to learn about regional and local rural issues
- April 2024 – Visit the NFU’s external affairs team in Westminster and tour the Houses of Parliament
- May 2024 – Help to guest edit the NFU Student & Young Farmer Takeover Edition of Student Farmer magazine
- June to August 2024 – Represent the NFU at various agricultural events
- September 2024 – Support the Back British Farming Day in lobbying the government to see the value of British food and farming
- November 2024 – Represent the agricultural industry at Lord Mayor’s Show in London, including an overnight stay
- January 2025 – Handover to the next cohort of Ambassadors.
