Judy Stuart, an award-winning Howick dairy farmer who has always had a passion for all things agricultural. Judy is one of South Africa’s most revered dairy farmers, contributing to farming publications, and representing South Africa at global conferences on dairy farming and agricultural innovations. Her brainchild, the Future Farmers Foundation aims to cultivate skills and ignite a passion for farming in farmers between the ages of 18 and 26 years.
The aspirant farmers are provided the opportunity to ‘learn as they earn’ through real job experiences in an agricultural field of their choice. The farmers are placed in apprentice positions on local and then later international farms, returning home to South Africa with their expertise.
Judy now has farmers in large commercial operations around South Africa in responsible farming roles such a running over a thousand dairy cows. Judy commented that the Foundation only provides opportunities and mentorship, it is up to each young farmer to make the most of the programme.