Journey into agriculture
Some of my earliest memories are of being outdoors surrounded by livestock. I never imagined myself doing anything other than working in agriculture, and from a young age I was fascinated by the dedication and resilience of farmers. I love the variety the industry offers and the responsibility that comes with caring for animals, knowing that every day presents a new challenge and an opportunity to learn.
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Since leaving school, I've been fortunate enough to gain experience across a range of farms and within the veterinary industry, working with cattle, sheep, pigs and goats. I've assisted with TB testing, worked in busy lambing sheds, supported vets with artificial insemination and embryo transfer programmes, and developed practical skills in livestock husbandry, animal health and medicine administration. Every role has strengthened my ambition to build a career where I can combine practical farming with veterinary knowledge.
However, my journey hasn't always been straightforward. In 2020, after contracting Covid, I developed Non-Epileptic Attack Disorder (N.E.A.D.), a neurological condition which causes seizure-like episodes. At its worst, I experienced multiple seizures every day and regularly relied on a wheelchair because I couldn't safely walk any distance. Overnight, my independence disappeared, and I genuinely believed my dream of working in agriculture might be over before it had even begun. The thought of never being able to work with livestock again was devastating.
As my recovery progressed, agriculture became my motivation. Being around animals gave me something positive to focus on, and caring for livestock helped rebuild both my confidence and my determination. Farming gave me a purpose during one of the hardest periods of my life, and it reminded me why I had chosen this career in the first place.
Sheep
If there's one area of agriculture I'm most passionate about, it's sheep. Although I previously worked as a shepherd, sheep remain the part of farming I enjoy most, particularly during lambing when no two days are ever the same.
Over the last three years, I've become heavily involved in showing pedigree sheep across the country. I mainly show Continental breeds, including Dutch Spotted, Texels and my personal favourite, the Badger Face Texel, alongside some traditional hill breeds such as Kerry Hills. Showing has introduced me to some incredible breeders who have generously shared their knowledge and helped me develop my stockmanship.
One of my proudest achievements was being crowned Royal Three Counties Young Handler Champion 2025, before later finishing second at the National Young Farmers Sheep Stockjudging Finals at Stafford Winter Fair. Those results reflected years of hard work, early mornings and a genuine passion for learning more about the sheep industry.
Young Farmers
I've been a member of Young Farmers since 2022, and it has been one of the best decisions I've ever made. The organisation has pushed me well outside my comfort zone and helped me develop confidence I never thought I'd have.
I've represented my county in six National Finals, competing in stock judging, public speaking, photography, floristry, metalwork and cookery, as well as qualifying for numerous South West Area Finals. Every competition has taught me something different, whether that's speaking confidently in front of an audience, thinking under pressure or working effectively as part of a team.
Beyond the competitions, Young Farmers has introduced me to lifelong friends and a fantastic support network within the farming community .
Future Ambitions
Looking ahead, I want to continue building a career that combines farming with animal health. One of my next goals is to complete my Equine SQP (Suitably Qualified Person) qualification, allowing me to advise horse owners on the safe supply and use of veterinary medicines while expanding my knowledge of equine health and welfare.
Longer term, I'd also love to achieve my Agricultural SQP qualification. I'm particularly interested in livestock medicines and how new products and treatment protocols can improve animal welfare while benefiting farmers. I hope advances in veterinary medicines will continue to reduce withdrawal periods and minimise side effects, helping farmers maintain high welfare standards while improving productivity and profitability.
Whatever direction my career takes, I know agriculture will always be at the heart of it. It has challenged me, shaped me and given me opportunities I never imagined possible. Most importantly, it gave me the determination to keep moving forward when I needed it most, and for that I'll always be grateful.
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