YFCU Celebrates Completion of Second ‘Cultivating Young Leaders’ Programme with Final Presentations in Armagh

The Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster (YFCU) proudly marked the conclusion of their second Cultivating Young Leaders programme with a final afternoon of presentations held on Friday at the Armagh City Hotel.

This bespoke leadership programme, designed for members aged 18 to 30, is modelled on the highly successful initiative run by the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs. Over the course of five intensive sessions—including two overnight residentials—participants explored topics such as leadership, business skills, succession planning, goal setting, cash flows, benchmarking, and business planning.

The programme was delivered by respected industry professionals including Heather Wildman (Saviour Associates), Rodney Brown (Danske Bank), Peter Brown (Martin King French & Ingram LLP), Michael Barnett (McAleer Jackson Ltd), Roberta Armstrong (Ulster Farmers' Union), Martin Blair and Chris Gill, who generously shared their insights and experience with the group.

The group also had two educational farm visits kindly hosted by Alastair Taylor and Gary Thompson which proved very beneficial.

Newly elected YFCU Vice President Karen Walker said ‘Taking part in the Cultivating Young Leaders programme was a fantastic experience. The course provided a strong foundation in leadership development, succession planning, accounting and legal advice, all complimented by insightful farm tours. One of the most rewarding parts was presenting our leadership journey to key YFCU funders on the final day. It was incredible to see the confidence and growth in everyone throughout the programme.

YFCU Chief Executive Officer Derek Lough also acknowledged the generous support of the Thomas Henry Foundation, saying, “It is with sincere thanks to our sponsor that we can offer this learning opportunity. Their support has been instrumental in delivering a high-quality programme focused on leadership and personal development.”

The Cultivating Young Leaders programme reflects YFCU’s ongoing commitment to nurturing the potential of young people across Northern Ireland’s rural communities—building not only better farmers, but stronger leaders for the future.