The Royal Welsh Agricultural Society (RWAS) has announced that the application window for the 2025 Rural Leadership Programme is now open. The programme is a fully funded opportunity designed to cultivate the next generation of agricultural and rural leaders.

Unique fully funded leadership experience
Supported by a legacy from the late Mr N Griffiths and match-funded by the Glamorgan Feature County of 2023, this innovative programme will develop up to 12 exceptional candidates through a comprehensive leadership development journey.

“We are looking for people with drive and ambition” said Aled Rhys Jones, Chief Executive of the RWAS. “Our leadership programme has gained a fantastic reputation for helping participants gain clarity and confidence in their future career and business goals. We need good people and good leadership skills to help take our industry forward and this programme is an opportunity not to be missed”.

Programme highlights
Participants will benefit from:

  • Intensive leadership development sessions
  • Networking opportunities with fellow participants and industry leaders
  • Advanced media and communications skills training
  • Travel opportunities

Impact and Testimonial
Previous participants have been full of praise for the programme’s truly transformative impact. Lauren Evans a recent attendee, said it was “an experience I will never forget. A chance to push beyond your comfort zone, invest in your personal development, and connect with lifelong cheerleaders. You start as strangers, but by the end, you’ll have 11 incredible supporters celebrating your every success”.

Liz Rees commented: “Wow, what a year it has been with the RWAS Leadership 24/25 cohort, the opportunities have been life changing and the support from so many individuals has encouraged and motivated me to make positive changes personally and lead the industry forward for generations to come.”

Candidate requirements
Successful applicants must demonstrate:

  • Full commitment to the entire programme
  • Punctuality and active participation
  • Potential for leadership in agricultural and rural sectors

Key programme dates

  • Selection Day: Tuesday, 29th April 2025 at Royal Welsh Showground
  • First Session: 10th-13th June 2025 (North Wales)
  • Second Session: 20th-31st October 2025 (Cardiff/London)

Participants who complete the programme will be presented at the Royal Welsh Show’s Awards Ceremony and receive a prestigious certificate of achievement.

Application details
Closing date: 4pm, Tuesday 22nd April 2025
Application Forms are available from the RWAS website: Applications Now Open for 2025 RWAS Rural Leadership Programme – Royal Welsh
Interested candidates should submit their completed applications via email to: alison.harvey@ruraladvisor.co.uk

Picture caption: 2024 Rural Leadership Cohort at their presentation during the 2024 Royal Welsh Show, with RWAS President for 2024, Mr Denley Jenkins and his wife, Mrs Beryl Jenkins.

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