This year, we’re catching up with past Hugh Williams scholarship winners, with a new profile every fortnight. Stay tuned as we find out... where are they now?

This week, we speak with self-made farmer Steven Foote. Steven won the scholarship in 2007 and has since achieved his goal of farm ownership, running a 320ha sheep and cattle farm in Waikouaiti, Otago, alongside his wife.

What are you doing for work now, and where are you based?

I am currently based near Waikouaiti, Otago. My wife and I are self-employed farming sheep and cattle on 320ha.

How did the Hugh Williams Scholarship open doors for you?

The Hugh Williams Scholarship played a pivotal role in shaping my agricultural career. From the outset, Ravensdown provided valuable support by offering part-time work during my university years. This not only helped me gain practical experience, but also allowed me to build relationships within the agricultural community, opening the door to numerous job opportunities.

What is your proudest achievement in your career so far?

Achieving farm ownership has been a long-term goal of mine. The satisfaction of applying the knowledge I've gained through years of university and work experience makes it all the more rewarding.

How has a career in agriculture shaped your life, both professionally and personally?

A career in agriculture has shaped me by reinforcing the value of hard work, perseverance, and resilience. Professionally, it’s given me a vast range of experiences, from hands-on farming to leadership opportunities. Personally, it has nurtured a strong bond with the land and a commitment to making a positive impact on the community.

Looking back, name one big challenge you encountered in your career, and how you overcame it

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in my career has been navigating the transitions between different roles. As Dwight D. Eisenhower famously said, 'Farming looks mighty easy when your plow is a pencil and you're a thousand miles from the corn field.' From my time studying agricultural science at Lincoln then transitioning to working at Ravensdown presented challenges in applying theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. Later, moving into farm ownership came with its own set of obstacles that required more adaptation and perseverance.

What do you feel the agricultural sector is missing right now, and where do you think the next generation can really make an impact?

The agricultural sector offers incredible opportunities, but one thing it needs more of is enthusiastic and passionate individuals who are deeply committed to their chosen fields. Whether your interest lies in genetics, animal science, soil science, or environmental management, a genuine passion for your work can be a transformative force—not just for your career, but for the sector as a whole.

What advice would you give to those thinking about applying for the scholarship?

Believe in yourself! The scholarship is a great opportunity to gain knowledge, skills, and confidence for your career. Applying for scholarships can be challenging, but it’s worth it if you’re passionate about making a difference in agriculture.

What’s next for you?

My goal is to further develop and diversify our farming business, focusing on enhancing both its economic resilience and environmental sustainability. Additionally, I aim to continue advocating passionately for the growth and success of New Zealand agriculture.