I do tend to sign up for a conference, if they are good I will sign up for a second year, if not, I won’t.

Yesterday was the Wales NFU Cymru annual conference in The Metropole hotel at Llandrindod Wells. I have been attending this one for a few years, so yes I think it is well worth going to. This year was even better, as Dad came with me too.

Many people roll their eyes at the thought of attending a conference, and I wander why? It is a good opportunity to hear about your industry, listen to new speakers, and possibly learn something new. They are also a good social excuse, there are some people I only see at this conference from year to year, and it would be a shame to miss that opportunity.

I question the benefits of a conference in two ways; it is useful for me in my job, my role at Rural Advisor? Is it useful for my own personal development? Okay – actually, add another way – I question the cost!

Yesterday – it was useful for work as we had an introduction from Aled Jones (NFU Cymru President) followed by an update from the Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths on the events for Welsh Agriculture at the moment. Then we had two presentations discussing carbon, emissions, trees and hedges – particularly topical at this time for Welsh agriculture (and a consultation document pending so keep an eye out for that). The other useful thing here was that I got the contact details of the speakers, so if and when I need more information, I can go after them for it again. I also had a very quick chat at lunch time which will actually help me with a current work challenge…ideal 🙂

Yesterday was useful for my personal development as I saw many different styles of presenting – from NFU as a member organisation and lobbying body, to scientists, politicians and professors. It is so interesting to see these different styles, so much to learn!

The afternoon then took a change in direction and we had a political editor from Wales Online, discussing the state of Welsh politics at the moment (I know, what a topic), we had a speaker explaining international trade and opportunities for Welsh and British Agriculture – then we had a Professor talking about International Consumer Behaviour.

I find politics interesting but it tests my patience (I don’t know how people work in politics full time) – the speaker was excellent though, and funny too. International trade and consumer behaviour are fascinating topics – and helps me to see what I can influence or change, and what I can’t – and where is best to spend my energy.

Consumer behaviour was a fast, furious and lively presentation with a lot of information – I cannot remember it all – but I am quite the note taker so all good.

On taking notes – I do this as my brain is like a sieve – I know I have heard it, when, and what is was, but cannot remember every detail – so I have learnt to take notes. I also do it because it helps keep the creative fun side of my brain in check. I have to be a bit careful as I will be drawn in by good presenters, their style, panache and flair , but at the end I might end up wandering what they actually said. So notes allow the brain to enjoy but keep it all real too!

Final speaker of the day – Minette Batters – whether you are an NFU person or not – this lady is a tremendous public speaker, and how she has presented various arguments is quite a masterclass. I would describe her style as no messing, there is no nonsense, there is honesty – and she gets things done. Very inspiring and so much to learn! Followed by a closing part by Abi Reader (Vice Chair N

Looking back at the day – it was successful for work, personal development, and free to members so a win, win, win – excellent result.

Highlight of the day for me was meeting Minette Batters – I a quite the fan ( you may have noticed this already :-)) I have heard her on the radio, seen her at shows, conferences including NFU and Meat Business Women. I am sad that she is coming to end of her 6 year term as NFU President but grateful for the work she has done and what has been achieved. Thank you Minette!

I do have a few people in what I kind of consider my hero category, Minette Batters (previously mentioned….once or twice), Beth Dutton from Yellowstone and Laura Ryan (started MBW amongst many many other things). I know Beth is a character, but she has some awesome lines, and definitely has a no nonsense approach! So it seems my heroes are all women – this isn’t to say there aren’t men who inspire me, because there are – but just at the moment these women get things done, and I like that.

They say never meet your hero – well I did and I am well chuffed! If you are disappointed when you meet yours – pick a new hero!!

See you at the next conference 👍

Take care x