In January the 29th Worshipful Company of Farmers Challenge of Rural Leadership Course was something I entered into with plenty of excitement but a little trepidation. Uncertainty about exactly what the Course would entail, the 20 people I’ll be sharing the experience with and the person I’d be afterwards.
Any fear soon melted away after being welcomed into a room full of friendly faces at Dartington Hall in Devon, our base for the next 2 weeks. Facilitated by the Worshipful Company of Farmers and the Rural Business School at Duchy College, we were all in the safe hands of the Course Directors: Robin Jackson and Jacqueline Bagnall. They curated, delivered and guided us through a journey of professional and personal development, providing us with the tools to be rural leaders and face the challenges affecting agriculture.
After the Course and returning home I felt re-wired. Interacting, listening and thinking slightly differently. Energised and empowered, more confident that I have the skills, tools and support to make incremental changes and take my next steps in rural leadership. I have a newfound appreciation for the power of collective and creative thinking.
The Course wouldn’t have been what it was without the 20 passionate, thoughtful and motivated people, and now trusted friends that I shared the journey with. We had challenging and thought-provoking conversations, tears and laughter! Thank you, your support is invaluable and I can’t wait to see how you will become the best version of yourselves and flourish as leaders.
I’m incredibly grateful to have been part of the 29th cohort. Thank you to those who encouraged me to apply, the National Farmers Union and East of England Agricultural Society Scholars Programme for supporting my attendance, the Worshipful Company of Farmers and Duchy College, the Course Directors, alongside the speakers, coaches and tutors who brought this experience to life.
The Worshipful Company of Farmers Challenge of Rural Leadership Course is an incredible, immersive and enlightening experience. I continue to grow and gain from the learnings and connections it has helped me to establish. I hope in turn these will benefit others, the agricultural industry and wider society. I’d wholeheartedly encourage other aspiring rural leaders to apply.
