Challenge yourselves to be more inclusive, Navaratnam Partheeban says in Harvest Lunch address

Navaratnam Partheeban OBE challenged agricultural communications professionals to be more inclusive

Navaratnam Partheeban OBE emphasised the importance of inclusivity and diversity in agricultural communications during an inspiring Harvest Lunch address.

‘Theeb’ Partheeban was the event’s guest speaker, taking to the floor after lunch.

A farm vet, author, and the founder of the British Veterinary Ethnicity & Diversity Society (BVEDS), his presentation focused on the importance of diversity in the agricultural industry and emphasised that there is no reason why agricultural communications can’t be more inclusive.

One of his key points was the overall goal of equality for all – not just in the agricultural communications industry – and how this is a value that he hoped the whole BGAJ community shared.

He went on to say that in order to truly be inclusive in this industry, we must look at the definition of what a farmer is. In his view, it is someone who produces food, no matter if they have over 100 acres or just a single acre, and regardless of their race, religion or background.

“Agriculture should be an inclusive club, not an exclusive one,” he said.

Theeb challenged the agricultural communications professionals present to be more inclusive. He pointed out that Black History Month (taking place in October) was not being talked about in the most of the agricultural press, and that offering coverage of other events such as Pride Month or International Women’s Day would be big steps forward.

The BGAJ Harvest Service and Lunch is the highlight of the BGAJ calendar featuring a spectacular meal and the Guild’s annual awards ceremony.

The membership would like to thank this year’s sponsors NFU Mutual, ABP, Alltech, John Deere, Hutchinsons, Merlo UK, and Certis Belchim for supporting the 2023 Harvest Service and Lunch.

> Tickets for the 2024 BGAJ Harvest Service and Lunch are on sale now at eventbrite.co.uk.

> Further images from the whole day available from Ruth Downing