CAPACITY in the agriculture and food sector has been boosted by a program which gives industry high-achievers the opportunity to be mentored by recognised business leaders.
The Rural Business Development Corporation (RBDC) and the Department of Agriculture and Food are driving the Grow Zone Mentoring Program.
The program was first trialled in 2009 involving four mentees, each matched with a business leader, or mentor. The most recent round of the program involving 10 pairings of mentors and mentees has just been completed.
The successful participants were congratulated by Agriculture and Food Minister Terry Redman at a function in Perth last night.
Department Director General Rob Delane said significant gains could be made within the sector by drawing on the wisdom and expertise of successful business leaders from all economic sectors.
“The Grow Zone Mentoring Program encourages and guides motivated individuals, through mentoring, to realise their full potential,” Mr Delane said.
“This in turn results in productive and positive outcomes for rural businesses and communities, and the broader economy of Western Australia.”
RBDC Chairman Rob Sands said the program realised significant benefits through the ongoing participation of former mentees as ambassadors and current mentors.
“Grow Zone is focused on building industry capacity to adapt and grow, providing valuable benefits to individuals through leadership roles, improved career advancement opportunities and links with successful entrepreneurs from the WA business community,” Mr Sands said.
“Highly motivated business owners in the rural sector are being set up to capitalise on future business opportunities and forge promising careers in their respective industries.”
