Leaders in their field: CQ cotton growers Danni Ingram and Kim Stevens selected for the Australia Future Cotton Leaders Program

Both women have made outstanding contributions to the cotton industry and they can play key roles in its future development. Read about their latest success here.

Two outstanding Central Queensland cotton growers have been selected to take part in the Australian cotton industry’s premier entry-level leadership program, the Australia Future Cotton Leaders Program (AFCLP).

Emerald grower and president of the Central Highlands Cotton Growers’ and Irrigators Association, Danni Ingram, and Biloela grower Kim Stevens, will participate in the program, recognition of their outstanding contributions to cotton so far.

Eight women and seven men from across NSW, Queensland and the ACT will participate in the 2022 program, with support from Cotton Australia and the Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC).

The program aims to develop their leadership knowledge, skills and experience so that they, in turn, can play key roles in further developing the industry.

Ms Ingram, 36, said she was excited about taking part because she had a passion for encouraging young people to step up in the industry and take on management roles.

“I gained a management role in cotton quite early and it can be overwhelming and scary, but it doesn’t have to be,” she said.

“I want to help younger people understand the incredible opportunities that are available to them and demystify the enormity of the roles so we can retain talented and capable people in cotton for a lifetime.

“The technology involved in ensuring sustainable and high-quality cotton can also be daunting but I think our younger workforce can easily integrate that into farm life so that implementation doesn’t become a burden.”

Biloela’s Mrs Stevens, 37, grew up on a farm surrounded by cotton and is now working on a mixed horse, cattle, and farming property with her husband and two children.

“I applied for the future cotton leaders’ program because I am looking for new opportunities and growth,” she said.

“I have a huge passion for the cotton industry and always have.

“I have always been in awe of how far cotton has come and evolved. To be around that kind of progression would be life changing.

“What I think this program could do for me is open up opportunities to meet like-minded people and help continue my passion.”

Cotton Australia CEO Adam Kay said the calibre of applicants for 2022 highlighted the role Australia had in leading the world in improving cotton quality and environmental stewardship.

“I am excited about the 2022 Future Cotton Leaders Program because of the potential for real benefit to the participants and the industry as a whole,” Mr Kay said.

“They have some game-changing ideas and a passion for improving sustainability, quality and yield.”

Mr Kay said the development of future cotton leaders was essential as the industry sought to further improve water and pesticide use efficiencies while maximising quality and yield.

“The program is professionally delivered, empowering participants to give as much as they take, encouraging fresh thinking and innovation from our emerging cotton decision-makers.”

CRDC executive director Dr Ian Taylor said the participants represented the diversity of the cotton industry and its supply chain.

“The 2022 cohort includes cotton growers and farm managers, researchers, extension officers, marketers, and fashion designers - a talented mix of people who are already working to improve the future of the Australian cotton industry,” he said.

“In their day-to-day roles, these emerging leaders are already tackling big issues like cotton’s heat and drought tolerance, water use efficiency, ginning optimisation and showcasing cotton as a renewable resource for emerging designers.

“Previous graduates of the AFCLP have been drivers of change and we have confidence that the 2022 participants will continue that tradition.”

In 2022, 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.

The program will conclude at the Australian Cotton Conference in August 2022.