The award recognises the country’s outstanding young leaders and is open to all Young Farmer members.
Mounsey was one of three recently presented with the award at a VIP function in Christchurch. The other two were Sam Robinson and Sarah Tait, both from Methven, Canterbury.
The award judges praised Mounsey, who is the technical assistant to DairyNZ chief executive Tim Mackle, as a “focused leader”.
In 2015, he represented NZ on an international research project on agricultural greenhouse gases in Argentina, the Global Youth Agricultural Summit, and graduated from the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme.
But Mounsey is humble about his achievements and says he was honoured to receive the award.
“It’s been quite a journey that all started on a small farm in Otorohanga. I feel incredibly fortunate that I’ve had these opportunities within our sector, along with the support of so many amazing people.”
Mackle says Mounsey “is an extremely hard-working, focused guy who is deeply passionate about dairy” and deserves the recognition.
NZ Young Farmers chief executive Terry Copeland says the recipients are outstanding in their fields and show the wide variety of talents the agri-food sector requires today.
“Zach is passionate about ensuring NZ maintains its place as a world leader in dairy. Even though he’s still in his twenties, Zach has devoted his life to applying his knowledge and skills for the greater good. He’s a role model for future agri-food leaders.”
The awards were set up in 2016 to recognise and acknowledge future leaders of the primary industries.
