Two Harper Students secure place in renowned Dairy Student Finals after tough competition

Two students from Harper Adams University have been shortlisted for the 2023 Dairy Student of the Year Award, which peers, companies and prospective employers regard as highlighting some of the sector's rising stars.

Jack Howard and Rebecca Smith were selected from six finalists following a formal interview and panel discussion in front of an industry panel in London in December. The other finalists included Danielle McLaughlin and Rosamund Owens from the Royal Veterinary College, Imogen Greenway from Harper Adams University and Sam Roderick from Nottingham University.

During the panel discussions, finalists were asked to give a presentation on how the dairy industry could better engage with Generation Z and connect with consumers.

The judging panel consisted of RABDF Chairman Di Wastenage, Vice Chairman Robert Craig, Mole Valley Farmers' James Hague and Chloe Cross from Kite Consulting.

Mrs Wastenage said the standard of this year's students was incredibly high, making the final decision almost impossible.

She added: "The competition has become distinguished across the dairy industry due to the high calibre of students entering each year.

"The optimism and enthusiasm towards the industry are clear from the applicants, and it is encouraging for the sector's future success.

"The key messages from this year's finalists included the effective use of social media to help make dairy cool and trendy while also promoting the health benefits of dairy consumption and the industries sustainability to maintain our social licence," added Mrs Wastenage.

Jack Cordery, CEO of Mole Valley Farmers, said the company was delighted to sponsor the Dairy Student Award again this year.

"We need bright young people to enter this industry. They are the future and essential to ensure we can meet the challenge of ensuring both profitable and sustainable UK farming in the years ahead. Congratulations to all of the finalists and to Jack and Rebecca on their shortlisting for this prestigious award.”

The winner will be announced at Dairy-Tech 2023 on 1 February at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, where they will receive £750 plus a six-month paid placement with award sponsor Mole Valley Farmers.

The winner will also be given the opportunity to question the speakers, including Rt Hon Mark Spencer, Minister for Food, during the State of the Dairying Nation debate at 10:45am.