How mentoring helped Charlie thrive in farming

CHARLIE Cooper Harding is a dynamic and highly motivated individual from Powys.

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At just 26 years old, Charlie’s passion for the agricultural industry is undeniable, even without a farming background. Charlie recently benefited from working with a Mentor from Farming Connect.

The Mentoring Service is available to farmers and growers of all ages and business types to benefit from the guidance, experience and knowledge of their farming peers. It’s especially useful for businesses considering changes such as diversification, adding value, expanding, or starting new enterprises. It’s also beneficial to new entrants and those looking to exit the industry.

While Charlie’s success seems effortless now, his journey wasn't always smooth. He shares great advice and the benefits of mentoring to others who might be feeling the same way.

Once intending to follow his parents’ footsteps in London, Charlie’s career changed after he worked with a local fencing contractor and on a beef farm in mid-Wales. That experience sparked an interest that has grown into a strong passion for the agricultural sector, where he now aims for success in all his endeavours.

'The goal was to find something that I enjoy and to make a difference.'

Charlie worked as an Area Sales Specialist for Wynnstay Group PLC. His role as a Student & Young Farmer Ambassador with NFU provided valuable networking opportunities, and he credits his success to a strong belief in learning from everyone he meets. In 2022, Charlie won the HCC scholarship, which enabled him to travel to Chile.

Qualifying for Farming Connect membership under the aspiring new entrant category, Charlie has utilised many services Farming Connect has to offer which have supported his ventures and personal development, such as e-learning modules concentrating on Business development, Artificial Insemination, Prosper from Pasture and more recently the Mentoring Service.