Empowering the Next Generation of Growers

Why Agriculture?

I grew up in Kenya where my father was the Managing Director of a flower farm. During school holidays, I worked alongside him, learning the ins and outs of farm life. It was in those years that I developed my connection to agriculture, seeing firsthand the satisfaction of nurturing plants and watching them grow. I knew that one day, I would return to the land, but it wasn’t until I went to university that I realized where my true interests lay.

My Professional Path to Agriculture

I decided to pursue agriculture at university, eager to learn more about farming and the various aspects of crop production. During my time there, I became involved with berry farming, and that’s when I truly discovered my passion for the industry. The more I learned, the more I felt that this was the path I wanted to follow.

After finishing my studies, I started my professional journey at a major company in the British soft fruit industry. I initially worked on harvest operations but soon found myself stepping into more senior roles as I became more involved in managing the day-to-day operations of the farm.  I then moved on to seize the opportunity of becoming a farm manager, where I gained invaluable experience leading teams and overseeing all farming operations.

Stepping into Leadership Roles

Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to grow professionally in many ways. Managing 30 people speaking different languages during harvest season can be incredibly challenging, and ensuring that the farm operation runs smoothly and that the farm's goals are met is a handful. But I learned that I thrive under pressure and that my strength and one of the most rewarding aspects of my job is the ability to create a collaborative, communicative environment where everyone can contribute their ideas and work towards a shared goal.

On my second return to Hall Hunter, I expanded my experience across the entire supply chain. This gave me a broader perspective on berry farming, from production to retail. The ability to have a direct impact at multiple stages of the process has been a true privilege.

Women in Agriculture

One of the biggest challenges in agriculture is the balance between work and life. Farming requires long hours and physical labor, and it can be difficult to find time for your personal life. But I’ve seen the industry evolving, particularly for the younger generation of farmers, and there’s a growing awareness of the need to balance both.

As a woman in a leadership position, I’ve had to prove myself in a sector that has traditionally been male-dominated. There have been challenges, of course, but I’ve learned to persist and embrace opportunities without letting anything hold me back.

Empowering Future Farmers

One of the things I’m most passionate about is empowering the next generation of farmers.  I’ve been fortunate enough to lead NextGen Fruit Group, an initiative that brings together young people from various areas of agriculture. This platform allows us to share ideas, learn from each other, and build a stronger, more unified industry. NextGen is supported by our partners, Netafim UK,  who play a crucial role in enabling us to deliver impactful events, provide continuous learning opportunities, and support the next generation of fruit industry professionals. 

The next generation is the future of farming, and we must encourage them to get involved, ask questions, and embrace opportunities. Learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom; it happens in the field, where hands-on experience shapes us into better leaders and more informed professionals. Through leadership, mentorship, and my work with the Next Gen Fruit Group, I’m proud to help pave the way for future leaders in this vital industry.

Women Leaders in Agriculture

To any young woman considering a career in agriculture, I would say this, “Don’t let any opportunity pass you by.” Agriculture is a dynamic and rewarding field, and there’s always something new to discover. Take risks, get involved, and always keep learning. This industry is full of incredible potential, and with the right mindset, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.

Farming isn’t rocket science, it’s about practical skills, hard work, and teamwork. Don’t be afraid to start at the bottom and learn every step of the way. It's worth it!