GenAngus Future Leaders Program to be hosted in New Zealand

The 2023 cohort of the GenAngus Future Leaders Program. Image Angus Australia

Angus Australia and specialist agricultural insurer Achmea Australia have announced the return of the GenAngus Future Leaders Program (GenAngus) in 2024 to be hosted in New Zealand. 

GenAngus stands as a beacon of youth leadership in the agricultural sector. It is the flagship program of the strategic alliance between Angus Australia and Achmea Australia and has been helping to steer the development of young Angus breeders since 2019. 

Heading into its sixth year, GenAngus has supported more than 50 young members of the beef industry, equipping them with essential skills and knowledge to help advance their careers in the beef industry. 

In previous years, successful participants from Australia and New Zealand have gathered in Sydney and Adelaide for a three-day intensive workshop aimed to boost their knowledge and confidence in launching or further developing a beef enterprise. Being held in Christchurch, the 2024 program will enable participants to immerse themselves in New Zealand’s rich Angus heritage and benefit from the local agricultural and cultural perspectives that align with the core values of the GenAngus program. 

Nancy Crawshaw, Angus Australia Extension Officer, said hosting GenAngus in New Zealand will allow participants to gain insight into the Maori culture and values, where they can learn how these can be adapted in farm and business management. 

“GenAngus has been designed to challenge participants’ way of thinking and allow them to learn from some of the best agribusiness professionals in New Zealand and Australia, to take their business to the next level,” Nancy said. 

“The program aims to lead participants on a journey to discover what is needed to develop a high performing culture in a farming business and how to maintain it over time.” 

Emma Thomas, Achmea Australia Chief Executive Officer emphasised the importance of investing in the next generation of beef leaders today to successfully navigate future challenges. 

“In the face of rapidly changing and uncertain times, it is essential to have leaders who are driven by purpose and possess a mindset of adaptability,” Emma said.

“Through the innovative GenAngus program, our goal is to ignite the potential of tomorrow’s leaders, empowering them to transform challenges into opportunities and build a resilient future for the beef industry.” 

-Angus Australia