Jake Stokman from Stokman Angus in Rotorua, was among 14 carefully selected young professionals for the GenAngus Future Leaders Program 2025, which took place in Australia from May 26-30, 2025. This milestone educational initiative brought together emerging leaders from across Australia and New Zealand to advance their understanding of leadership, technical skills, and industry dynamics in the beef and agricultural sectors.
The diverse cohort included participants from Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, Tasmania, and New Zealand, each bringing unique perspectives and experiences to the intensive five-day program. Through hands-on workshops, rigorous conversations, and shared commitment to progress, participants were immersed in an environment that championed collective growth and personal transformation.
Jake’s Journey
Building Connections: Jake began the program alongside 2024 GenAngus alumni who joined for ice-breaker activities, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie. The day included challenging escape room exercises that pushed participants to work together creatively under pressure, followed by mindset workshops and DISC profiling sessions that helped participants understand their individual personalities and how different types work together.
Key Learnings: Throughout the program, Jake encountered several sessions that particularly resonated with his current situation and future goals.
Succession Planning Workshop: Jake found particular value in Mark Westcott’s succession planning session, which provided raw and honest insights with actionable tools vital for inter generational transitions. “The succession planning workshop was another good session,” said Jake. “It’s something that I’m right in the middle of right now and resonated back with me. I’ve really got some key points just to talk about when I get home.”
Inspirational Business Stories: Jake was deeply moved by Chad Taylor’s candid presentation about Mumblebone Merino Stud’s evolution through adversity. The story of perseverance and staying true to core values struck a chord with Jake and other participants. “I just really enjoyed the speech… It’s an inspiring story, how he stuck to his guns… It’s just awesome to see,” Jake expressed.
Industry Insights: Jake also benefited from sessions covering beef market trends with Simon Quilty, breeding objectives with Nancy Crawshaw, and leadership under pressure with former SAS Patrol Commander James Jensen. The program’s comprehensive approach ensured participants gained both technical knowledge and leadership skills.
Real-World Application
The program concluded with property visits that provided Jake and his cohort with real-world validation of the concepts discussed throughout the week. At Pleasant Vale Angus, they were welcomed by alumni Cody Best, who shared his family’s cattle history and future ambitions while demonstrating how the GenAngus program had impacted his life and business. The group was challenged to analyze and advise on key business operations, showcasing the practical application of their learning.
A subsequent visit to Landfall Angus offered Jake further insights as Ed Archer, Alex Ferguson, and their team shared their approach to running successful seedstock and commercial ventures while managing family dynamics in business.
Network and Connections
Beyond the formal learning sessions, Jake valued the opportunity to connect with like-minded peers from across the Tasman. The program fostered deep personal connections and professional relationships that extend well beyond the five-day intensive program. The vulnerability and openness encouraged throughout the program helped break down barriers and create lasting bonds among participants.
Mentorship Opportunity
As part of the program, Jake will receive a 12-month mentorship from industry experts, helping bridge the gap between theory and real-world application. The 2025 cohort has also committed to mentoring the 2026 intake, creating a growing tradition of leadership development.
The program was supported by Achmea Farm Insurance, the Angus Foundation, and the Rabo Community Fund, demonstrating the industry’s investment in developing future leaders like Jake Stokman.
Jake Stokman is Vice-Chairman of AngusPRO NZ.