APPLICATIONS AND NOMINATIONS
OPENING SOON!
The Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year award recognises an outstanding woman who has contributed to the dairy sector with passion, drive, innovation, and leadership.
What the recipient receives
The recipient will receive a scholarship valued at $13,000 to take part in the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme.
The scholarship includes:
- Full payment of the programme fees
- Travel and accommodation assistance of up to $4,500*
- Mentoring to support their leadership development
- Access to the DWN & Fonterra platforms to share research and insights
*Any travel or accommodation costs above $4,500 will be at the participants responsibility.
Award Criteria
The judging panel will consider the following qualities when awarding the Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year title:
The entrant:
- Demonstrates commitment, drive, and passion for the dairy sector as a whole and is a positive role model for women in dairying.
- Is a strong performer, who is recognised by her peers as a potential leader.
- Demonstrates leadership within her community, while having a wider circle of influence than her local community.
- Is influential in the dairy sector, holding or having previously held leadership positions on regional or national dairy organisations.
- Has a vision for adding value to the future of the dairy sector and is actively working towards achieving this through their leadership aspirations.
- Is a Dairy Women’s Network member.
How the award is judged
The judging panel consists of five judges including representatives from:
- Dairy Women’s Network
- Fonterra
- Ballance Agri-Nutrients
- Rural Leaders
- A previous Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year recipient
What to expect if selected as a finalist
Finalists are expected to be available to attend the following:
| Date | Activity |
|---|---|
| March 2027 | Online interview with the judging panel |
| March/April 2027 | Media training – four-hour in-person session |
| March/April 2027 | On-farm filming session |
| 11-12 May 2027 | DWN Conference 2027 and Fonterra Gala Dinner in Hamilton |
Finalist Benefits
Finalists will receive:
- Complimentary registration to the DWN Conference 2027
- Complimentary ticket to the 2027 Fonterra Gala Dinner
- Travel and accommodation paid for by DWN to attend the required events.
Applications and nominations opening soon…
This award is brought to you by
ASK ME ANYTHING - WEBINARS
Hear past recipients talk about their journeys, what they have done with their scholarships, and how it has helped with their aspirations in the industry.
Watch the webinars at: