Jim Hamilton and Nicole Batten. Photos: CBH
The CBH Group and the Grower Group Alliance (GGA) have announced the two successful applicants for the 2025 Growing Leaders Scholarship.
A spokesperson said the two Western Australian grains sector farmers would embark on a transformative 10-month journey, as part of Leadership WA’s esteemed Signature Leadership Program, commencing next month.
“The Scholarship, funded by the CBH Group and coordinated by GGA, offers a unique opportunity for recipients to refine their leadership skills and deepen their impact within the agricultural sector and broader community,” she said.
Each scholarship is valued at $16,940.
CBH and GGA also congratulated the 2025 recipients, Nicole Batten from Yuna and Jim Hamilton from Moora.
They who join a cohort of 14 previous Scholarship alumni who have significantly contributed to the leadership capacity within the grains industry and regional Western Australia.
CBH Chief Stakeholder Relations, Sustainability and Strategy, Brianna Peake emphasised the importance of fostering leadership in agriculture.
“CBH’s investment in the Growing Leaders Scholarship reflects our commitment to the sustainability of regional communities and the grains industry,” she said.
“We look forward to seeing Nicole and Jim thrive in their development journeys and further contribute to our sector.”
GGA chief executive Rikki Foss congratulated the recipients and reinforced GGA’s commitment to leadership development.
“We are proud to support the Growing Leaders Scholarship as part of our mission to strengthen capacity within Western Australia’s agricultural sector,” she said.
“These scholarships provide invaluable opportunities for growers to build their capabilities and effect positive change in their communities and beyond.”
Leadership WA chief executive Dominique Mecoy commended the recipients for their selection into the highly coveted program.
“The Signature Leadership Program provides participants the opportunity to learn from Western Australia’s most innovative leaders, as well as each other,” she said.
“Leadership WA’s unique cohort selection and curation process brings together leaders with diverse experiences, sectors, industries, and perspectives, ensuring an exceptional environment for peer learning and connection. “The continued support of CBH Group and GGA in funding and delivering these scholarships allows growers and representatives from regional Western Australia to participate. This not only enriches the program for all involved but also ensures a deeper understanding and appreciation of our state’s agricultural sector.”
