LOCHIEL’S Mikaela Christians is one of ten participants to graduate from the 2024 Australian Grain Leaders Program.

Their completion was celebrated at a graduation function in Adelaide recently.

Ms Christians is an agribusiness professional, working for Elders as a technical services coordinator to support the company’s national agronomy network and specialised advisory services. She has a Bachelor of Agribusiness and has also worked in grain marketing. 

Ms Christians is now studying a Graduate Certificate in Agricultural Consulting to acquire skills in strategic farm planning and succession.

She lives on a broadacre and sheep property, which she said gives he the unique perspective of both producer and professional.

AGLP participants took part in face-to-face group workshops, field visits, coaching sessions, and training and integration with industry participants and events.  

Every member of the graduating group also undertook a project addressing a specific challenge in one of GrainGrowers’ six priority areas: trade and market access, grain freight and supply chains, workforce, biosecurity, carbon and climate, and farm inputs. 

GrainGrowers chief executive Shona Gawel congratulated the graduates and welcomed them into the expanding program alumni.

 “Each new group commencing the year-long program is full of possibilities, and I am always excited to see the personal growth of participants as they take on the professional development training offered through the AGLP,” Ms Gawel said.

“The intention of Grain­Growers with this program is to develop the capacity of young growers and agricultural professionals to help shape the future of Australian grains.

“Over time, I have been pleased to see more and more of our graduates step forward and into leadership roles throughout the industry.” 

The AGLP has been running for 17 years and has an alumni of 149 participants.