A new programme aiming to get more young women into work in the food and fibre sector is kicking off in Palmerston North.
Victoria Agyepong used the programme as an opportunity to establish a primary sector network and start a social enterprise to improve outcomes for New Zealand's immigrant workforce. Photo: Agri-Women's Development Trust
The programme, Generation Change, is a series of one-day workshops that establish mentoring opportunities for tertiary-aged women in the agriculture sector.
It is being hosted by Agri-Women's Development Trust, which also developed and piloted the programme.
General manager Lisa Sims said it would offer pathways into agri-jobs for women.
"It's for young women in any type of tertiary study or training who are curious about a career in any part of the primary sector supply and value chains, from the farm or orchard to marketing, tech support and shipping," she said.
"The workshop covers four key areas. Participants reflect on their values, strengths and purpose, exploring the mega trends shaping the sector's future, plan a meaningful career and connect with inspiring, supportive sector leaders including a mentor."
The programme was piloted online in March with 50 women.
It has since helped some into new careers, including Lincoln University PhD student, Victoria Agyepong, who used the opportunity to establish a primary sector network and start a social enterprise to improve educational and development outcomes for New Zealand's immigrant workforce.
"As a young mum who had just immigrated to New Zealand while figuring out my PhD, I was completely overwhelmed with my new life," she said.
"My mentor, Janine Alfeld, has helped me develop organisational, leadership and policy skills to balance work, life and study, and understand the New Zealand context. I'm happy to be working to create career advocates through an online mentoring and peer learning platform for immigrants with families.
"My mentor's attentive, empathetic and knowledgeable approach to my career development helped me achieve my goals."
Generation Change is co-funded by the Ministry for Primary Industries and AGMARDT through the Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund, and supported by amp'd Careers.
The first event is in Palmerston North at the beginning on 2 August.