The Australian Grape and Wine Authority’s (AGWA) Future Leaders program is currently open to applicants in the industry.

The program seeks to find 15 individuals in the wine and grape industry who have open, creative and inquisitive minds and who are already demonstrating leadership potential in their early- to mid-career.

Successful applicants will go on to take part in a six-month personal and professional development program in June.

2009 Future Leader, Tom Ward – Winemaker at Swinging Bridges, said the program was life changing for him.

“It taught us to run our businesses well, to be strategic in the workplace, but also to expand our thinking beyond day-to-day issues.

“I wouldn’t be where I am without the Future Leaders program”, Mr. Ward said.

If you know someone that you think should apply, you can “tap them on the shoulder” at www.futureleaders15.com, which will notify the individual of the program through email, Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest.

2012 Future Leader, Katherine Brown from Brown Brothers, said that encouraging people to get involved is particularly important in smaller regions where it can be hard to find mentors or develop networks.

“I took so much out of the program. You’re sharing time and ideas with winemakers, viticulturists, marketers and administrators from all states and from companies big and small, and these are people who care about the industry and where they want it to go.

“Everyone I speak with is positive about it. There’s a feeling not only that we need more younger leaders in the industry, but also that we need to expose younger people to concepts that challenge their thinking and allow them to look outside the industry for ideas and strategies.”

Applications close March 17. Head to www.futureleaders15.com to apply.