Future Cotton Leaders Program launched

Applications have opened for the 2020 Australian Future Cotton Leaders Program (AFCLP).

AFCLP is funded by Cotton Australia and the Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC). It is for emerging leaders and is delivered every two years. The 2020 edition will be the seventh time the program has been run.

Cotton Australia CEO Adam Kay said the AFCLP supports individuals to realise their commitment to creating and leading change in the cotton industry.

“The key goal of the AFCLP is to support those emerging leaders in developing their leadership knowledge, skills and experience,” Mr Kay said.

“Australian agriculture, including our industry, is experiencing a significant amount of change at the moment, and this program is a proactive way to support growers in developing into leaders, advocates and influencers of positive change within Australian cotton.”

The AFCLP is best suited to people who are keen to progress their leadership skills and who are actively involved in a cotton enterprise, or related position and industry area such as cottonseed, ginning, extension, research, and consultancy.

In 2020, the program will feature face-to-face forums, interactive online discussions, one-on-one coaching and integration with industry activities.

Participants will also undertake an individual project related to their area of interest, which will assist in developing their leadership skills in a real life scenario.

Adam Kay said the AFCLP provides a springboard for the industry’s leaders to take on further study and move into senior positions within Australian cotton.

“Graduates of the AFCLP are more actively involved in Cotton Grower Associations, as well as at a whole-of-industry level on boards including Cotton Australia and CRDC, as well industry committees and projects,” he said.

“A number of AFCLP graduates have gone on to the Australian Rural Leadership Program and become Nuffield Scholars.

“I strongly encourage anyone interested in applying to be involved, as this is an opportunity that delivers real benefits at both a personal and industry level.”

The 2020 program will conclude with a graduation ceremony at the 2020 Australian Cotton Industry Leadership Dinner on the Gold Coast on Monday 3rd August 2020.

Application forms can be downloaded here: https://cottonaustralia.com.au/leadership-programs. Applications close Friday, April 3rd 2020.