Ten Australian grain farmers have been selected to participate in the exclusive Grains Social Leadership Program (GSLP), kicking off virtually next month. The high-level program is run by peak grains representative body GrainGrowers to build leadership and advocacy skills in farmers identified as emerging influencers, with the goal of progressing the sector forward and building community trust.
Now in its third year, GSLP has broken new ground in the agricultural sector and is designed so growers can collaboratively build social leadership skills, including confidently engaging in critical discussions about food production in the media, with their peers and in the community. Topics currently facing the industry include climate change, sustainable practices on-farm and genetically modified foods.
“The GSLP is about ensuring grain farmers are powerful voices for our industry, and channelling awareness and understanding across Australian communities,” says Kaitlin Leonard, General Manager Grower & Industry Development. “It’s important when there are issues raised by the community that a grower’s perspective is present, and that they can capably share their experiences as food producers.”
“I applied for GSLP because I am ready to grow my skill set to better communicate and voice the needs of my industry and community,” says WA grower, Lisa Jeitz. “GSLP has a reputation for high quality delivery of relevant skills education, I look forward to representing my state within the national cohort.”
GSLP is part of GrainGrowers’ five-year mission to build a ‘Grains100’ list, consisting of 100 progressive grower leaders who will build the social licence and sustainability of the Australian grains industry by sharing their unique experiences as food producers.
The program works with a small, bespoke group of individuals who are passionate about grain farming and believe they can affect real change in the sector and broader Australian community.
Growers taking part in the 2021 GSLP include; Mark Merrett (VIC), Josie Clarke (NSW), Fiona Marshall (NSW), Denise McLellan (VIC), Stuart McDonald (NSW), Chris Moloney (SA), Lisa Jeitz (WA), Alison Woidt (SA), Nigel Corish (QLD) and Jake Hamilton (QLD).
Available for comment:
Lisa Jeitz – WA grain farmer, Pinehills Pastoral Co & GSLP participant
Kaitlin Leonard – GrainGrowers General Manager, Grower & Industry Development