NFU Scotland and Women in Agriculture Scotland encouraging Scottish nominations.
An awards scheme intended to celebrate and reward female contributions to agriculture has been launched. The National Women in Agriculture (WiA) Awards will be held in the House of Commons, London, on 9 May 2024 and welcomes entries from across the UK.
Carole Brunton, Chair of Women in Agriculture Scotland, said the organisation is delighted to support the event: “These awards provide the opportunity to champion the outstanding achievements of women from all corners of agriculture.
“It would be fantastic to see nominations from across Scotland highlighting advancements in technology and sustainability, to the development of new business models and practices that pave the way for the next generation of women in farming and food production.
She added: “Agriculture relies upon community and collaboration; gatherings like this one will allow us to come together as a community of women to mentor one another, spark new ideas through conversation, and form valuable friendships.”
Lifetime Achievement, Farming Woman of the Year, Rising Star of the Year and Business of the Year are among the 12 awards set to be announced at the London ceremony. Nestle, Co-op Food, First Milk and HSBC have agreed to sponsor the black-tie event in the House of Commons members’ dining room.
The WiA awards were initiated at the start of this year as there is no existing scheme which offers recognition for female contributions to farming.
Gemma Cooper, Head of Policy Team at NFUS, urged the importance of Scottish representation at the ceremony.
She said: “These awards are a fantastic opportunity to recognise the important contribution of women in the agricultural sector. Women play such a vital role in agriculture, often in the background, so it is great to see an opportunity to get some well-deserved Scottish names in lights.”
The ceremony is expected to be attended by more than 150 guests and nominees, making it an excellent industry networking opportunity. Following the award presentation, an after party with live music is planned at the Marriott County Hall Hotel, a short walk across the Westminster bridge from the Houses of Parliament.
Entries close on the 12 January 2024.
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Contact Brooke Harwood on 07823 556253