Dive into the podcast series showcasing the highly successful Growing Future Farmers programme that B+LNZ sponsors. Discover its inspiring beginnings, the people shaping it, and the students and farmers benefiting from the initiative.
The programme received the Rabobank New Zealand People and Development Award at the 2024 Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) Awards.
Growing Future Farmers boasts a high success rate. In 2024, an impressive 96% of 51 students achieved their Certificate in Agriculture, with other qualifications also showing high completion rates.
B+LNZ is proud to sponsor GFF as part of our People and Capability workstream, developing knowledge, skills and confidence of new entrants within a supported-on farm environment. GFF is creating competent employees looking for their next career step in sheep and beef farming.
Students often describe the programme as “life-changing,” highlighting how it builds confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose in the rural sector.
Host farmers, called Farm Trainers, also share how the programme has benefited their farms. Many have noted that having a GFF student has created a learning environment on their farms that creates continuous improvement, innovation, and mindset shifts.
Podcast series – a deep dive into GFF
In a three-part B+LNZ Scene + Herd podcast series, we delve into the heart of Growing Future Farmers. The episodes cover its inspiring beginnings, the people shaping it, and the students thriving through this life-changing initiative.
Episode one – where it all began
Hear from GFF co-founder Tam Jex-Blake, who launched the programme in 2020, and CEO Wendy Paul, who shares her passion for its future.
Episode two – student support
Meet farmers Simon Lee and Richard Webby, alongside Student Success Advisor Laura Gavin, as they discuss their roles in shaping future farmers.
Episode three – the students perspective
Current students Tom Flashoff and Monique Wrathall, plus graduate Alex West, share how GFF has transformed their lives and careers.