Local university student Niamh Mason has been announced as one of 22 recipients of the 2023 Horizon Scholarship.
The scholarship is supported by seven Research and Development Corporations, along with Kalyx Australia, Baiada Poultry, Southern NSW Innovation Hub and Marine Bioproducts Cooperative Research Centre, to develop the next generation of rural leaders.
Miss Mason is sponsored by Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC) and will receive a $10,000 bursary over two years.
She will also be exposed to “plenty of opportunities” to develop leadership skills and expand the networks.
Busary recipients will also attend an annual four day professional development workshop and complete two weeks of industry placement each year, all of which is covered by the support of their sponsor.
Miss Mason is studying a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at the University of Queensland and was was thrilled to receive the scholarship.
“I’m so excited to be awarded an AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship,” she said.
“Not only will it provide me the opportunity to connect with industry professionals, but I will also gain valuable hands-on experience in the cotton industry.”
AgriFutures Australia managing director John Harvey welcomed the next generation of rural leaders to the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship Program.
“Congratulations to our 2023 AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship recipients whose exceptional passion, ambition, and commitment to agriculture has distinguished them from a talented pool of applicants,” he said.
“It is very exciting to see the quality and diversity coming into our rural industries.”
Mr Harvey thanked the Horizon sponsors and acknowledged their significant contribution to the program, particularly in offering student’s valuable exposure to the agricultural sector.
“The AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship would not be possible without our sponsors.
“The diversity of industry sponsors reflects the desire across the board to focus on the next generation of leaders who will build prosperous and sustainable rural industries of the future.”
All students involved with the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship Program will attend a four day workshop in July focused on leadership and personal development.
The workshop will feature special guest speakers, industry experts, and also provide the opportunity to network, meet sponsors and discuss innovations and challenges in the agricultural sector.
Find out more about the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship at agrifutures.com.au/horizon.