Nestlé and First Milk launch Young Dairy Leaders initiative

Nestlé and First Milk have launched a forward-thinking initiative to support the next generation of dairy farmers. The format has been developed with 8point9 Training and Education and responds to the lack of opportunity for capable farmers to learn in a way that fits how they think and work. It focuses on practical learning reflecting the realities of running a modern dairy business.

“We are not building a training course. We are building the community, the confidence and the competence the next generation of regenerative farmers needs to thrive,” said Lee Truelove, head of regenerative farming at First Milk.

Young Dairy Leaders was launched at Dovenby Hall in Cumbria, home of international motorsports business M-Sport UK, so attendees could experience a successful business outside farming and explore how different sectors deal with pressure, uncertainty and decision making.

The group toured the facility and took part in discussions on stress management, leadership and resilience. Guest speakers included Cumbrian dairy farmer Robert Craig, who shared his experience of building a progressive and sustainable dairy business, alongside adventurer, author and charity founder Alex Staniforth, who spoke about overcoming extreme physical and mental challenges.

Attending the launch event, Mike Warmington, regeneration lead at Nestlé UK & Ireland, said, “We want to make sure we are helping to build long-term resilience and sustainability in our supply chain. Of course, that means farming regeneratively but also means the long-term resilience of the farmers and their businesses. Young Dairy Leaders is a great step forward to help make sure the next generation of farmers keep doing what they’re doing today for many years to come.”

Young Dairy Leaders will run a series of events in 2026 and is for First Milk members looking for relevant learning to support both business performance and personal growth, with a strong sense of community sitting at its heart.

Nestlé and First Milk believe Young Dairy Leaders comes at a critical time for the sector, as dairy businesses adapt to economic pressures and the transition towards more regenerative systems. Their ambition is to create a lasting network of skilled and confident farmers who can support one another and help shape a sustainable future for the industry.