On this episode of RaboTalk's Growing our future, host Katie Rodwell is joined by AgFirst Consultant and recent university graduate, Chelsea Hopkins. Chelsea is Manawatu born and bred, currently working as an Agribusiness and Environmental Consultant at one of New Zealand's leading consultancy firms. This episode is a must listen for anyone beginning their career in a rural support role, or for anyone wanting to get their kids more involved in agriculture through school.

Katie and Chelsea discuss her time at Feilding High School, and the Agribusiness in Schools program; the value of diverse work experience through university; the role of mentors as a young person; and the need for a better connection between the rural and urban sector from early childhood. Chelsea highlights the challenges being faced by Manawatu farmers, changing environmental trends, and the opportunities for diversification in farming. Chelsea sees a future with technology playing a greater role in farming, a diverse workforce, sustainability, and changing markets.