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TNQ Drought Hub Technical Adoption Officer Keerah Steele has recently travelled to Brisbane to graduate from the prestigious program, Advancing Beef Leaders (ABL). Being part of the 2022/23 cohort, Keerah experienced firsthand the transformative power of this tailored leadership initiative focused on the personal growth and advancement of aspiring producers and community influencers.
ABL is designed to enhance professional development by equipping individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in both community and industry roles. Through ABL, participants are provided with a comprehensive blend of technical expertise and personal growth opportunities, encouraging the development of strong networks and empowering them to make valuable contributions and exercise influence.
Keerah tells us her story.
Upon learning about ABL, my initial impression was, “Wow, this program sounds incredible, but they might not consider someone like me due to my limited experience in the beef industry.” However, with encouragement from my peers, I mustered the courage to apply, even though I believed my application would likely be overlooked. To my delight, I received the life changing call for an interview, and ultimately, I was accepted into the program. I was extremely grateful for the opportunity which was supported by the unwavering commitment of Gulf Savannah NRM and Grazing Futures.
Similar to many others, I experienced the phenomenon known as “Imposter Syndrome” when attending the initial face-to-face forum of ABL. It was a room filled with highly influential figures in the beef industry and a remarkably talented group of ABL participants. Fortunately, the program leads and presenters had already initiated the confidence-building journey through Jill Rigney’s module on ‘Understanding self and others’. This module provided us with an opportunity to apply our newly acquired skills, interact with these industry leaders, and seek their guidance through asking questions. It became evident that everyone in the room had their own relatable story and shared experiences which gave you a sense of belonging and empowerment.
Despite the red meat industry’s favourable reputation, a particular aspect of Ben Reeve’s ‘Spheres of influence’ module struck a chord with me. It brought to light the tendency of individuals to form assumptions and make decisions based on their values, often without seeking factual information or understanding. This observation remained significant, even in the face of numerous industry groups striving to provide accurate and informed knowledge, a fact we also discovered during the program. Reflecting on this realization, I had a conversation with my mentor, Richard Cox, who helped me recognize the potential role I could play in the beef industry. Guided by Richard, I found my voice and a newfound determination to champion the industry I hold dear. Specifically, he inspired me to become an advocate for producers, encouraging them to embrace their unique values and celebrate their contributions.
The next four modules, Technical foundations, Economic and financial fundamentals, Business and succession planning and Governance, were challenging yet rewarding. I gained a comprehensive understanding of the complexities and challenges faced by businesses in this sector. Armed with this knowledge, I felt better equipped to engage with producers and industry professionals, approaching them with compassion, attention to detail, and a deeper appreciation for their endeavours. Acquiring this understanding of the industry will undoubtedly benefit me in my current roles with Gulf Savannah NRM and TNQ Drought Hub. Armed with this newfound knowledge, I will be able to approach producers and industry professionals with greater compassion and detail. This understanding enables me to engage on a deeper level, addressing concerns more effectively and seeking expertise with a clear and informed perspective.
The final Module, Communications, with Ann Burbrook for me was the most daunting challenge yet. The thought of standing on a stage in front of people is terrifying. However, Ann’s guidance, technics, tips and tricks were very helpful, and I successfully participated in a group presentation before an audience of a hundred or more, realizing my own growth and ability to communicate effectively. This accomplishment holds significant meaning for me, and I have noticed that the more I challenge myself to face uncomfortable situations, the more I gradually feel at ease (though not entirely) when speaking in front of a crowd.
My overall journey has been a transformative one, boosting my confidence, knowledge, and providing me with a clear sense of purpose. Not only that, I have also experienced the incredible support from an amazing group of fellow participants and developed lifelong relationships. The wisdom shared by Alison, Amanda, Ben and Tim as well as the presenters and mentors, especially Richard, have enriched my life.
I am forever grateful for the lifelong relationships, extensive networks, and valuable knowledge gained throughout the Advancing Beef Leaders program.
To find out more about the Advancing Beef Leaders program visit https://futurebeef.com.au/resources/advancing-beef-leaders
