The Young Farmers' Clubs of Ulster (YFCU) is thrilled to unveil an exciting new leadership programme designed to empower and educate its members between the ages of 18 and 30. This unique opportunity, aimed at helping young farmers with farm succession, career development, and daily life, marks a significant milestone in YFCU's commitment to the growth and development of its members.
The YFCU Leadership Programme, set to take place at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, is open to all YFCU senior members. With the generous support of our sponsors, The Thomas Henry Foundation, the organisation is able to offer this invaluable experience to our members.
The Thomas Henry Foundation was created in 1847 under the terms of the will of Thomas Henry, a merchant in Downpatrick, Co Down. The principal objective of the Foundation is to promote agricultural science, innovation and good farming practice in Northern Ireland.
The programme will consist of six day sessions, including three overnight stays. YFCU senior members are encouraged to apply, with a total of 16 places available per programme. To ensure the quality and effectiveness of the program, applicants must commit to attending all six days. A refundable deposit will be collected, and upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a full deposit refund.
The YFCU Leadership Programme will cover a diverse range of topics and activities, including: Leadership: Exploring the essence of leadership and identifying the qualities that make an effective leader. Vision & Goals: Setting personal and professional goals and understanding the path to achieving them. Succession: Preparing for the crucial decisions surrounding farm succession and facilitating difficult conversations. Business: Gaining insight into cash flows, accounts, budgets, and understanding the marketplace dynamics. Practical: Hands-on exercises, such as filling out a farm business tenancy application, completing a bank loan application, and crafting a comprehensive business plan for presentation to partners and bank managers. Conclusion: Assessing personal leadership growth and development throughout the program. Farm/Industry Visit: Experiencing real-life leadership in action through a series of farm visits and industry engagements.
YFCU is excited to offer this invaluable opportunity to its members, which is modeled after the highly successful program run by the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs. The organisation believes this program will equip the young members with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to excel in their careers, contribute to their communities, and lead in the agricultural sector.
Interested YFCU senior members are encouraged to apply promptly, as there are limited spaces available. Applications must apply via the YFCU website at https://www.yfcu.org/cultivatingleaders before the closing date Wednesday 11th October 2023.
(L-R) Richard Beattie, YFCU Deputy President, Peter Brown, Solicitor
Martin King French & Ingram LLP, Solicitors, Rodney Brown, Head of AgriBusiness Danske Bank, Shannen Vance, YFCU Vice President.