A team leader at Natural Resources Wales from Llanwrtyd Wells is among 11 individuals to be selected for the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society’s prestigious 2025–26 Rural Leadership Programme.
Katie Jones, who also helps run her family’s sheep farm, was chosen following a rigorous selection process to join this fully funded initiative aimed at nurturing the next generation of rural leaders in Wales.
With a background in primary education and a deep commitment to sustainability and mental health, Katie is stepping into a new leadership role on the family farm.
She is passionate about mental health, innovation, and securing the future of farming for the next generation.
The year-long programme, made possible by a generous legacy and matched funding, will offer Katie and her fellow participants opportunities to develop leadership skills, build networks, and engage with key figures across the agriculture sector.
Starting with a residential session in North Wales this June, the programme includes visits to Cardiff and London, specialised workshops, and participation in flagship events such as the Royal Welsh Show.
Aled Rhys Jones, CEO at the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society said: “We are thrilled to welcome this talented group of individuals to our Rural Leadership Programme.
“Each participant brings unique perspectives and experiences to the cohort, and we look forward to supporting their development as future leaders in Welsh agriculture and rural affairs.”
The 11 successful candidates are set to be formally introduced at the Royal Welsh Show Awards Ceremony on Monday, July 21.
The other successful candidates hail from across Wales, including Hafina Cordiner (Mold, Denbighshire), Elliw Dafydd (Llanilar, Ceredigion), Iolo Davies (Taliesin, Ceredigion), Alaw Evans (Criccieth, Gwynedd), Caryl Hughes (Llanarmon D.C., Llangollen), Eleri James (Lledrod, Ceredigion), Erin McNaught (Rhosygwaliau, Bala, Gwynedd), Corrina Parry (Llandudno Junction), Anna Sunford-Davies (Llanon, Ceredigion), and Ffion Thomas (Cwmann, Lampeter).