Two masters and one mission for change

Although she was set with a job in the food and fibre sector before Lincoln, Aimee decided to leave her role with Mars in 2021 due to the desire to address systemic challenges within the food system. 

“From my experience in field sales and food marketing, I’ve seen the vulnerabilities of our supply chains and the disconnect between consumers and food systems,” she reflects. “As a sixth-generation farmer, born and bred in Waiau Pa Auckland, I’ve also dealt firsthand with the family businesses battling challenges of changing international markets, shipping and impactful weather events.”

Recognising the need for more sustainable practices, Aimee was drawn to Lincoln University, which she describes as “one of the best things I’ve ever done.” 

Although at first, it was a hard decision to leave the security of my job, it was a no-brainer to join New Zealand’s specialist land-based Uni with inspiring people and the same deep love for farming, people and the planet.

During her time at Lincoln, Aimee studied both a Master of Management in Agribusiness and a Master of Commerce (Agriculture).   

She describes taking on the second Master's as a happy accident, with a research project popping up that “was too great of an opportunity to pass up, aligning with my values and being of use to the sector.”

Aimee’s research at Lincoln, in conjunction with AERU and Our Land and Water, investigated sustainable agri-tourism and more recently, the role of information channels in land use decision-making from the perspective of New Zealand farmers. 

For more on her research, see the recent article published by Farmers Weekly. 

And if you thought two masters were impressive enough, Aimee is also the co-chair of Future Farmers NZ and co-founder of Girls who Grow.

“My parents told me to get an education so I don’t have to become a farmer. However, I am a strong believer that farmers are superheroes as some of our environmental stewards and food providers,” she says. “Girls who Grow aims to change perceptions and support young women in the food system.”

Aimee is equally passionate about Future Farmers NZ, advocating for a youth voice in the future of New Zealand’s food and fibre sector.

Careerwise, Aimee is currently making a difference as a consultant at EY. Her day-to-day includes advising on climate change mitigation and sustainability strategies across industries. She mentions how “sustainability was embedded in my Master’s programmes, which was a massive benefit in securing this role.”

Looking ahead, Aimee remains steadfast in her commitment to creating a healthier, resilient and equitable future for the agriculture sector. 

 "We face some wicked problems, but also massive opportunities," she explains. "Our primary industries hold many of the solutions to the great social and environmental challenges we face."

“I’m excited about the opportunities that change brings and where my passions might take me!”

Lincoln University celebrates her achievements and the impact she continues to make on the industry. 

Congratulations on your graduation, Aimee!