The 2026 Future Cotton Leaders Program is now open for applications, inviting aspiring leaders from across the cotton industry to enhance their professional skills. The program aims to select 15 participants dedicated to developing their leadership capabilities while undertaking a project relevant to their areas of interest. This initiative welcomes applicants from various sectors, including growers, consultants, merchants, and research personnel.
Program Overview and History
Coordinated by Cotton Australia with support from the Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC), the Australian Future Cotton Leaders Program (AFCLP) has been a vital component of leadership development within the industry since its inception in 2006. To date, the program has produced 132 graduates, many of whom have ascended to significant positions within the cotton sector, including CEOs and Board Directors.
In 2024, the program selected 16 participants from a pool of 45 applicants, who engaged in a comprehensive curriculum that included face-to-face forums, interactive online discussions, and personalized coaching sessions. This holistic approach ensures participants gain practical experience and insights into industry dynamics.
Leadership Development and Industry Impact
According to Adam Kay, CEO of Cotton Australia, fostering leadership is a key priority for the industry’s strategic initiatives. “Leadership, knowledge, innovation, research, and hard work are ensuring we maintain our reputation as producers of some of the world’s best cotton,” he stated. Kay emphasized that the AFCLP plays a crucial role in identifying and nurturing the next generation of industry leaders.
Notable alumni of the AFCLP include former Chair of the Cotton Australia Board Nigel Burnett, current President of the Queensland Farmers Federation Aaron Kiely, and the 2025 CRDC Chris Lehmann Young Cotton Achiever of the Year Grace Griffiths. These graduates exemplify how the program cultivates talent capable of driving change within the industry.
Allan Williams, Executive Director of CRDC, remarked on the program’s significance: “It equips emerging leaders with the practical tools and confidence to tackle challenges, drive innovation, and create real change.” He noted that the AFCLP not only develops individual capabilities but also fosters a robust network amongst participants, connecting them with established leaders in the field.
The upcoming 2026 program promises a blend of face-to-face forums, online discussions, and one-on-one coaching, all designed to enhance leadership skills. Participants will also engage in an individual project tailored to their interests, allowing them to apply their learning to real-world scenarios. The program will culminate in a graduation ceremony at the 2026 Australian Cotton Industry Leadership Dinner, scheduled for August on the Gold Coast.
Prospective applicants should note that the deadline for submissions is November 28, 2025. Interested individuals are encouraged to apply promptly to secure their opportunity to join this esteemed program.
