Nominations and applications are now open for the 2025 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year award, which recognizes outstanding women who have made significant contributions to New Zealand’s dairy industry. The award celebrates leadership, innovation, and community engagement, with the winner receiving a scholarship to the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme. The 2025 recipient will join a prestigious list of past honorees, including Katrina Roberts, the current awardee. Applications close on February 28, 2025.
Nominations and applications are now open for the 2025 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year award, a prestigious recognition celebrating the exceptional contributions of women to New Zealand’s dairy industry. The award, which is in its 14th year, honors women who have demonstrated leadership, innovation, and dedication, not only within the dairy sector but also in the broader rural community.
The award is presented by Dairy Women’s Network, a leading organization that supports and empowers women in the dairy industry. The network encourages nominations for women who have made a positive impact beyond the farm gate, showing a commitment to improving the dairy sector, supporting communities, and shaping the future of the industry through visionary leadership.
This year’s recipient, Katrina Roberts, was recognized for her passionate contributions as a dairy veterinarian. Reflecting on her role, Roberts shared, “As a dairy vet, I believe that we are an integral part of the farm team, and the strong relationships with our clients contribute to the success on-farm. What drives me is helping my farmers and my community—giving my time and serving others.”
Jenna Smith, a Dairy Women’s Network Trustee and lead judge for the award, emphasized that the Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year must showcase a diverse skill set, including community engagement, environmental stewardship, professional expertise, and commercial insight. “This woman will know how to influence change and have the courage to steer down the challenges and opportunities our sector presents,” Smith stated.
The 2025 award winner will receive a scholarship to the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme, which includes the programme fee, travel, accommodation, and mentoring. They will also gain access to the platforms of Dairy Women’s Network and Fonterra to share their research and further their leadership aspirations.
Previous winners of the Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year award include prominent figures like Barbara Kuriger, Justine Kidd, and Belinda Price, among others. The award aims to inspire and uplift the women who are shaping the future of the dairy industry in New Zealand.
Applications and nominations close on February 28, 2025. For more information or to submit a nomination, visit the official Dairy Women’s Network website.
