Second-year international agribusiness student Oliver Cayley, who grew up in urban Taranaki, is proof you don’t need an agricultural background to excel in agribusiness, after being awarded the Perrin Ag John Perrin Scholarship for 2024.
The scholarship is granted to promising individuals studying agriculture and horticulture science at the undergraduate, post-graduate diploma or Honours level at either Lincoln, Massey or Waikato universities.
Cayley’s high academic performance during his first year, combined with his dedication and understanding of key industry issues, made him a standout recipient of the $3000 scholarship.
Founder and Chair of Perrin Ag John Perrin spoke highly of Cayley’s achievements.
“Oliver isn’t from an agricultural background, so he has done exceptionally well in his studies. His dedication and application in year one, as shown by his results, are extraordinary,” Perrin said.
“I was impressed by his mature and considered assessment of issues facing the agriculture industry in New Zealand at the moment. It was clear he fully intends to use his degree to further our industry and support the farmers within it.”
Cayley said the scholarship will alleviate some of the financial pressures of being a student and has helped him build industry connections.
“I’ve always lived in town. I don’t come from a farming background, so making industry connections with leading organisations like Perrin Ag is invaluable to me.”
He chose to pursue international agribusiness at Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University after enjoying business, geography and agriculture in high school.
He also gained practical experience in policy at a youth United Nations Economic Conference and participated in the Taranaki Futures Accelerator Programme, which connects students with industry to help them define their career path.
Over the past two summers, Cayley worked at CMK Chartered Accountants, gaining hands-on insights into the financial aspects of agribusiness.
“At school, I always wanted to do something business-related. I’ve always done accounting and economics, and I love analysis. Studying agribusiness lets me do all those things,” Cayley said.
“Ultimately, I want to use my skills to help farmers increase productivity and efficiency in a sustainable way.”
He said the international focus of his study has opened his eyes to the entire value chain for New Zealand’s primary products, from paddock to plate around the world.
“New Zealand’s products reach an international customer base. My studies are helping me understand the global value chain and how New Zealand’s sustainable farming methods can support and add value. There is huge potential in global agribusiness.”
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