Rose is now Executive Officer of Groundspread NZ. The industry is the lifeblood of a critical, yet often unseen, part of our agricultural sector. It is a voluntary, member-based organisation with roots stretching back to 1956. More than 100 member companies are members, forming what Rose affectionately calls a big whānau.

She explains, "They are so much more than truck drivers. They're passionate about the environment and integral to creating the fresh food on our tables. Historically, their contribution has flown under the radar or simply been misunderstood.

This disconnect between the industry's quiet excellence and its public perception sparked the creation of the GroundED leadership programme. "It was about making sure they had the confidence to share that story,” says Rose.

The programme is truly tailored

GroundED is a tailor-made leadership programme designed by Education Unlimited in partnership with Groundspread NZ. It bridges the gap between extensive on-the-job experience and the formal leadership skills that will drive the industry forward.

Rose says the Education Unlimited Team really went out of their way to understand the industry. "They took time to get to know us. Jenna has been around so much, she is like part of the whānau. Education Unlimited understands our people and understands what we were trying to achieve. They've created magic!

The programme is all about stepping up and learning new approaches. It runs over several sessions with interactive workshops that focus on capabilities such as effective communication, instilling accountability and active listening. They also look at the differences between leadership and management.

Jenna explains, "They learn about their personal leadership style and develop practical tools to lead their teams confidently."

Ultimately, GroundED empowers people to find their voice and articulate the value of their work and industry.

They’re already reaping rewards

The first cohort has been through the programme in 2024, and the second is due to complete the 2025 programme at their final in-person workshop in Blenheim next month. The impact of GroundED is already visible across the network.

"People have had the confidence to take on all sorts of new skills around the country. We've had new branch chairs, new secretaries, new National Council delegates, and people have taken on positions all around the country as leaders. So that's been pretty cool."

One moment stands out to Rose. "Last year, at the graduation, we watched the graduates take the stage at our annual event, and they spoke with such confidence. Some were actually facilitating member discussion sessions. It just blew me away to see them take on these roles with so much skill and mana."

Perhaps the most powerful story is that of the association's President, who stepped up to MC the event. It was a role that was far outside his comfort zone.

"He'd done the GroundED programme, and so, you know, written some notes. Afterwards, I overheard a group talking about his speech. They were saying, 'Oh my gosh, it was so cool seeing someone just like us up on stage; that's awesome.'

“They felt like they could see themselves doing it. Most of all, they respected his courage to be himself, rather than some unrelatable statesman. And I think that's what we've taken out of it. You just have to share your voice."

The programme grows leaders for the wider sector

GroundED isn't just about personal growth; it's about lifting the whole industry. Rose explains, “One of Groundspread NZ's key values is nurturing leadership across the network. Making sure that our members grow as individuals and within their own communities”.

Ideally, I'd love to see them on their community boards or going into schools and talking about what they do. They deserve to have genuine pride in their industry.

GroundED 2025 has been selected as part of the prestigious Food and Fibre CoVE Skills Framework Project. This grassroots initiative focuses on developing real-world, tailor-made skills for industry. The programme's inclusion is a big win. "We hope being involved in the Food and Fibre CoVE is going to raise our profile so more people are asking, 'Who are these guys and how do we get involved?'"

The partnership has been easy from the start

For Rose, the support from Education Unlimited has been a game-changer. "I hope others in niche industries know how great Education Unlimited is. Our size and specialist focus wasn't a barrier. They made everything really easy. With GroundEd, we have something that is specific to our industry. Best of all, it's been really enjoyable!

She adds, "They do feel like part of my team. I'm just one person working part-time, so it's been nice to feel like I’m really working alongside others. It's taken all the hard work out of it.

GroundED's story is a reminder that real leadership isn't about polish or perfection; it's about authenticity, confidence, and connection. By investing in people, even the smallest industries can unlock extraordinary potential and inspire pride that ripples out to our communities.

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