The application process for the 2026 Future Cotton Leaders Program (AFCLP) is now open, inviting candidates eager to enhance their leadership skills within the cotton industry. The program, which aims to select 15 individuals, welcomes applicants from diverse roles across the supply chain, including growers, consultants, merchants, and research personnel. Participants will engage in projects tailored to their specific interests, fostering both professional growth and industry innovation.
Program Overview and Significance
Organized by Cotton Australia with the support of the Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC), the AFCLP has successfully cultivated leadership talent since its inception in 2006, producing a total of 132 graduates. The program operates biennially, and in 2024, it attracted significant interest, receiving 45 applications and ultimately selecting 16 participants. The course includes a blend of face-to-face forums, interactive online discussions, personalized coaching sessions, and integration with real-world industry activities.
Adam Kay, CEO of Cotton Australia, emphasized the importance of leadership in the cotton sector. “Leadership is one of the key priorities of the cotton industry’s strategic plans,” he stated. Kay noted that the program nurtures the next generation of leaders who have the potential to rise to critical roles, including CEOs and Board Directors. Graduates of the program have gone on to make significant contributions to the industry, including notable figures such as former Chair of Cotton Australia, Nigel Burnett, and Aaron Kiely, President of the Queensland Farmers Federation.
Empowering Future Leaders
The AFCLP is tailored for individuals who are keen to advance their leadership capabilities while actively engaged in cotton enterprises or related fields such as cottonseed production, ginning, and consultancy. The 2026 iteration of the program will incorporate a variety of learning methods, including face-to-face forums and one-on-one coaching, ensuring a comprehensive leadership development experience.
Participants will also undertake individual projects linked to their areas of interest, providing a practical application of their leadership skills in real-world scenarios. This hands-on approach is designed to equip emerging leaders with the tools necessary to address challenges and drive innovation within the industry.
The program will culminate in a graduation ceremony held during the 2026 Australian Cotton Industry Leadership Dinner on the Gold Coast in August. The ceremony will celebrate the accomplishments of the participants and mark their transition into influential roles within the cotton sector.
Allan Williams, Executive Director of CRDC, highlighted the program’s essential role in fostering leadership. “The Australian Future Cotton Leaders Program is a cornerstone of the cotton industry’s leadership development,” he remarked. Williams noted that the program not only provides practical skills but also fosters a strong network among participants and established industry leaders.
Applications for the 2026 Future Cotton Leaders Program will close on November 28, 2025. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply promptly to seize this opportunity for personal and professional development in the dynamic cotton industry.
