NextGen Dairy Farmers Programme Launches Young Kiwi Careers in Dairy
A 12-month pathway programme has helped kickstart a career in dairy for an 18-year-old student-turned-farmer.
Sheridan, who received the award this month at the Dairy Women's Network annual conference in Hamilton, notes that women weave themselves into the dairy industry in different ways.
"One of the cool things about when you meet a woman working in the dairy industry is that she's wearing all these different hats," Sheridan told Dairy News.
"And you find a connection point that's not related to dairy farming but related to how they are providing services to their local schools and community groups.
"Someone has always got a story about their connection to the local communities."
Sheridan says she is privileged and humbled to receive the award that includes a scholarship to be part of the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme. The scholarship covers the programme fee, travel and accommodation, mentoring and access to DWN and Fonterra platforms to share research.
Sheridan grew up on a dairy farm in South Taranaki and has a Bachelor of Applied Science (Honours) in Soil Science from Massey University.
She has over 24 years of experience working in various roles at DairyNZ and serving as an independent industry consultant before becoming the demonstration manager at Owl Farm, a 140ha commercial venture at St Peter's School, Cambridge.
Based in Pirongia, Sheridan is a passionate advocate for inspiring young people to join the dairy sector. She oversees a demonstration farm where young people can walk straight onto the farm and see firsthand the joy of farming. The farm also opens regularly for visitor days, bringing dairy farming to the whole community.
Beyond farming, Sheridan is active in governance, serving on school boards and industry committees.
According to DWN, her leadership innovation, and mentorship make her a transformative force in New Zealand's dairy sector.
DWN trustee and lead judge Jenna Smith says Sheridan brings unstoppable energy, big-picture thinking, and a fierce commitment to making things better - for people, for animals, and for the future of farming.
"She doesn't just talk about change; she rolls up her sleeves and makes it happen. Jo is tackling complex industry challenges while passionately championing and empowering young people and innovation.
"For those that know her - and a lot of people do - they know that she is a humble and generous leader, showcasing courage, clarity, and heart," says Smith.
Anne Douglas, Fonterra's group director for Farm Source, who was part of the judging panel this year, says the calibre and depth of talent across all the nominations and finalists shows the strength of women right across the industry.
"We're thrilled to see Jo recognised as the winner of the 2025 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year award," says Douglas.
"Jo is a passionate and visionary leader who has proven to have a significant positive impact on stakeholders, partners, communities, and farmers. It was clear through the process that she adopts a holistic approach, with a clear focus on sustainability and desire to empower others - especially young people. Jo's authenticity and strategic leadership extends beyond the dairy industry into broader communities, and this recognition feels like just the beginning of even more incredible achievements for her."
