A TAFE NSW student scorching a trail for young women in agriculture is on a mission to inspire other young people to enter the industry.

Twenty-year-old Brooklyn Hanford is studying a Certificate IV in Leadership and Management and is working towards a leadership role in the Agribusiness sector.

Already well on her way to achieving her goals, Ms Hanford was crowned Casino Showgirl in 2019 and 2020, and just last month, 2021 Miss Beef Week Casino.

Ms Hanford, has farming in her DNA, working on the family’s stock horse farm in Sooty Hill from a young age.

According to Department of Agriculture ABARES figures, women account for less than a third of Australia’s agricultural workforce and only 2 per cent of the industry’s senior leaders.

“I always enjoyed helping my parents on the farm and after working in beauty, I decided agriculture is where my passion lies,” Ms Hanford said.

“I have a lot of knowledge about the agriculture industry and in order to have a lasting career in the industry, I want to develop broader business and leadership knowledge. Studying the Certificate IV in Leadership and Management has helped me to understand what is necessary to run a successful business at all levels.”

Currently working in Administration and Sales at Nutrient Ag Solution, Ms Hanford hopes to encourage other women to consider a career in the industry.

“People will support you when show that you are willing to learn and want to be taken seriously,” she said. “TAFE NSW has given me the skills I need to progress through my career and it’s helped me to future-proof my career.”

To find out more about business and leadership courses available at TAFE NSW visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601 for more information.