Guild members interested in seeing agriculture overseas should keep an eye out for opportunities from the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) in 2025.
Outlining the programme of events available to UK Guild members – who are all automatically registered as members of the IFAJ – UK federation rep Olivia Cooper said the coming year offers some incredible opportunities for journalists interested in travel.
Travel opportunities
The World Seed Congress, which will take place in Istanbul from May 19-21, is offering 15 fully funded spots that cover flights, hotel accommodation, and registration fees. Participants will also have the option to take part in a two-night tour to Antalya on May 22-23, which will include visits to farms and agricultural facilities. Apply by the 16th April.
Other upcoming international events include the US Sustainability Alliance trip to California later this year, as well as the IDF World Dairy Summit in Chile, which will take place in October 2025. Members interested in attending any of these events should reach out for more details. Additional travel opportunities can be found on the ENAJ website.
Looking ahead to IFAJ Congresses, this year’s event will take place in Kenya in October 2025, with pre- and post-tours offering the opportunity to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. More information can be found here, along with a video preview.
In 2026, the congress will be hosted by Croatia in September, featuring additional tours to Istria and Dalmatia, with the possibility of linking the event to the World Ploughing Championships. South Africa will host the 2027 Congress in Kruger National Park, with additional trips planned to the Western Cape, Namibia, and KwaZulu-Natal.
Awards and Young Leaders programme
The IFAJ’s Star Prize Awards will continue in 2025 in the same format as last year, with five themed categories supported by Alliance Tyres. Applications will open on 1 April, with a deadline of 15 June. Each candidate will be allowed to submit up to two entries, and the winners will be presented with their awards in Nairobi during the Congress in October.
Meanwhile, the Alltech Young Leaders Bootcamp, which marks its 20th anniversary this year, will once again offer ten emerging leaders under 35 the chance to attend the Congress with full funding for travel and participation in CPD, networking events, and farm visits. Applications for this prestigious programme open in April, with a deadline of 6 June.
“IFAJ Congresses offer a unique opportunity for agricultural journalists to connect, learn, and share their experiences with peers from around the world,” said Olivia.
“For those who have never attended, the upcoming events in Kenya, Croatia, and South Africa promise to be unforgettable experiences.”
For more details about IFAJ activities and opportunities, visit IFAJ’s official website.
Images from the 2024 IFAJ Congress held in Switzerland.
