Scholarship supports rural leadership
A Jindivick student has been awarded a 2023 AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship.
Local university student Joshua Ronalds is one of 22 recipients of the scholarship, an initiative supported by seven Research and Development Corporations (RDC’s), along with Kalyx Australia, Baiada Poultry, Southern NSW Innovation Hub and Marine Bioproducts Cooperative Research Centre (MBCRC), to develop the next generation of rural leaders.
The scholarships were awarded following an extensive judging process focused on the applicants’ commitment to agriculture, leadership potential and career aspirations.
Joshua is sponsored by Hort Innovation and will receive a $10,000 bursary over two years, and opportunities to develop leadership skills and expand his networks.
On top of the bursary, recipients will attend an annual four-day professional development workshop and complete two weeks of industry placement each year, all of which is covered by the support of their sponsor.
AgriFutures Australia managing director John Harvey congratulated the 22 students from across Australia on their success and welcomed the next generation of rural leaders to the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship Program.
“Congratulations to our 2023 AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship recipients, whose exceptional passion, ambition, and commitment to agriculture has distinguished them from a talented pool of applicants. It is very exciting to see the quality and diversity coming into our rural industries,” said Mr Harvey.
Mr Harvey acknowledged the Horizon sponsors and their significant contribution to the program, particularly in offering student’s valuable exposure to the agricultural sector.
Joshua said he was excited to receive the scholarship. “Not only will it provide me the opportunity to connect with industry professionals, but I will also gain valuable hands-on experience in the horticulture industry.”
All students involved with the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship Program will attend a four-day workshop in July focused on leadership and personal development. The workshop will feature special guest speakers, industry experts, and also provide the opportunity to network, meet sponsors and discuss innovations and challenges in the agricultural sector.