NSA searches for next generation of sheep sector entrepreneurs Young people with a passion and enthusiasm for the sheep sector is just what the industry needs. With that in mind, NSA Next Generation is looking for up to 12 individuals to become NSA Ambassadors for 2017 – and the deadline is fast approaching, on Sunday 18th December.

Successful NSA Next Generation Ambassador applicants take part in five two/three-day delivery sessions during the year. These are made up of practical sessions, classroom activities, farm walks and site visits, which aim to challenge the group to think objectively about their involvement in the sheep sector. From grassland management to health inputs, business planning to negotiating skills, the sessions cover all the essential things sheep farmers and shepherds need to know to run efficient flocks. The aim is for each Ambassador to be able to develop their own flocks and careers, as well as become spokespeople and promoters for the industry.

With Ambassadors selected England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, the programme also provides an ideal opportunity to meet like-minded individuals to share and discuss ideas and experiences.

Ellen Helliwell, an existing NSA Next Generation Ambassador, says: “Becoming an Ambassador is an amazing opportunity. It really gets you thinking and gives you loads of ideas to take home and put into practise. I’ve gained so much confidence in making decisions and promoting the industry as much as possible. If you are passionate about sheep, you should definitely apply to become an NSA Next Generation Ambassador.”

The NSA Next Generation Ambassador programme was launched in 2014, making the 2017 group the fourth of its kind. Alongside the technical and personal development sessions through the year, many Ambassadors from previous years have gone on to get more involved in NSA activities, be it through regional committees or local and national NSA events.

Jacob Anthony, another existing NSA Next Generation Ambassador, says: “I’ve feel as if I’ve learnt so many new skills which I can take home to enhance my own business, whist networking with several influential figures in the sheep sector. Not to mention the life-long friends I’ve made from all over the UK. I’d highly recommend applying to become an NSA Next Generation Ambassador to anyone who is keen to learn more about our fantastic industry.”

Online applications for the 2017 NSA Next Generation Ambassador group can be found at www.nsanextgeneration.org.uk/applyonline. The deadline for applications is Sunday 18th December. The Ambassador group is part of the wider NSA Next Generation project, which is funded by the NSA regions and ram sales, with support from a number of delivery partners.