Youth programs shape future farmers for success

The evolving landscape of livestock production

Hannah Gibb, from Manawatu, New Zealand, has firsthand experience with these challenges and offers a unique perspective on how the next generation is adapting to the changing landscape. Growing up in a family of Hereford breeders, she was introduced to cattle through her grandparents' farm and even received her first heifer as a birthday gift. With a degree in Agricultural Science from Massey University, Gibb has been involved with the NZ Herefords breeders association since she was a child, specifically through their NZ Hereford Youth program. Now, she manages and mentors the program's Youth Team, guiding the next generation to follow in her footsteps.

Gibb explains, "Livestock producers of both the current and next generation are well aware of the challenging reality of land and livestock ownership. Without community programs to teach young producers how to handle financial pressures and embrace sustainable practices there is a greater risk to succession, evolution and progress in our sector.”

Drivers of new opportunities

However, these challenges also bring new opportunities. Gibb highlights they serve as strong motivation to embrace and adopt new technology that can improve business performance, efficiency and environmental sustainability.

One area that is gaining increased attention is animal health and wellbeing, driven by increased consumer awareness and market demand. “It’s becoming more important that livestock producers stay at the forefront of exceptional animal nutrition and health as the world faces increasing food security challenges”.

This new, market-driven focus is an area where Gibb believes the next generation can play a significant role. “Given science is constantly evolving, there is a key opportunity to introduce the younger generation to new practices, feed alternatives and medicines that they can implement at home, or in their early careers,” says Gibb.

Thanks to programs such as NZ Hereford Youth, the next generation is well-equipped to tackle these new challenges and demands, says Gibb. She explains how youth programs and competitions are shining a spotlight on topics like nutrition and wellbeing, through animal health workshops and educational modules. These programs also provide a unique opportunity for young farmers to engage and participate in discussions and decisions regarding governance and legislation, fostering a holistic approach to sustainable development.

Celebrating tomorrow’s talent and future leaders

Each year, youth competitions bring together hundreds of young farmers and their families across Australia and New Zealand with the goal of cultivating and celebrating the future of livestock production. This year, Gibb’s NZ Hereford Youth Team travelled from New Zealand to Parkes in central New South Wales, Australia, to compete in the 2023 Herefords Australia National Youth Expo.

The trip to Parkes was an opportunity for these young adults to form new friendships, make valuable industry connections and grow as individuals. Through competitive and educational sessions including handler classes, stock judging, cattle preparation and herdsmanship, and visiting feedlots and learning from local breeders, the team was continually challenged to learn and grow. Gibb says they all took this in their stride, embracing the opportunity to give new things a go.

Boehringer Ingelheim's continued support for NZ Hereford Youth has played a crucial role in providing unique opportunities for many individuals, including Gibb herself. The partnership has contributed to shaping successful careers strengthening the future of agriculture.

Gibb remarks, “It’s very rewarding to see how far they’ve come as young adults. They will ultimately become the caretakers of our land and livestock so it’s our responsibility to ensure they are provided with the tools and support to succeed.”