For the third consecutive year, BASF are pleased to support the National Farmers’ Federation’s (NFF) 2021 Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program (DiALP). Through mentoring and networking, the program supports aspiring female leaders with a passion for agriculture develop into key-decision makers within the industry.
NFF President Fiona Simson said the program is transforming gender representation within the agricultural industry "For many years, unspoken barriers have seen women all but excluded from the forums where key decisions are taken about agriculture and the future of regional communities," Ms Simson said.
"Thankfully, transformative change to fix this inequality is now well underway." In 2016, Ms Simson was elected as the first female President of the National Farmers' Federation in its 40-year history. Today, women make up 50 per cent of the NFF Board.
Over the course of six months, successful applicants will work with a specially matched mentor to develop the skills and networks they need to realise their leadership ambitions. In addition, the program participants are provided access to a range of inspiring and accomplished leaders and will come together with their fellow 2021 cohort twice in Canberra.
Gavin Jackson, Head of BASF Agricultural Solutions Australia & New Zealand, said BASF were thrilled to sponsor the program for the third time. “Promoting diversity is part of our company culture at BASF, and supporting programs like the NFF’s Diversity in Agriculture Program ensures that we are making meaningful and lasting change, not just within BASF, but the wider agricultural industry.”
BASF is supporting the DiALP by providing a financial contribution to help fund the program. Additionally, a senior leader within BASF will provide mentorship to the participants.
Applications for the 2021 Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program are open until 5 April 2021. To find out more about the program visit: www.nff.org.au/programs/diversity-in-agriculture-leadership/
About BASF in Australia and New Zealand
BASF serves key industries in the agriculture, coatings, manufacturing and mining sectors, and posted sales of about €348 million in Australia and New Zealand in 2020. As of the end of 2020, the company had 394 employees and operated 6 production sites across agricultural solutions, performance products and functional materials and solutions. BASF has been active in Australia for more than 90 years, and for about 60 years in New Zealand. Further information is available on the internet at www.basf.com/au.