Two Young Farmers Club members will be learning more about the impact of a diverse agricultural sector after earning scholarships to the Oxford Farming Conference in January.
Sian Davies from Radnor and Marley Lamerton from Cornwall were awarded the NFYFC scholarships courtesy of the Worshipful Company of Farmers.
The theme at this year’s conference is the Power of Diversity and speakers will be celebrating the wide range of businesses and people involved in the sector.
The pair get to be part of the two-day conference, as well as have the opportunity for peer-to-peer networking, share views and ideas, while gaining access to key skills development training.
Sian, a third-generation farmer on a sheep, beef arable and poultry farm, studied Agriculture and Business at Aberystwyth University and is looking to build on her industry knowledge.
“I am keen to make decisions, be challenged on the future of agricultural policy and adapt to how times are changing within our industry going forward,” said Sian, who is the vice chair of Radnorshire County Federation. “I’m honoured to have been awarded a scholarship to attend the conference and thankful to NFYFC and the Worshipful Company of Farmers for the opportunity.”
Sian will be joined by Marley, who has studied an Agriculture with Animal Science degree at Harper Adams University before moving into an agricultural graduate job role with Mole Valley Farmers.
Marley, who is not from a farming background, is eager to join in conversations at the conference about the industry being more open to those who are not from farming families.
“I want to highlight the importance of inclusivity for all within the farming community especially regarding breaking down barriers and the ranges of opportunities available. Along with wanting to represent people entering the sector from a non-farming background, I believe I am a strong advocate for women in farming which for some years was a male dominated industry.
“I am confident that my range of experiences will bring unique perspectives to the conference along with my dedication and passion for the industry.”
The Oxford Farming Conference is on 3-5 January 2023 and tickets are on sale here.
