Emerging Leadership Micro-Credential
The Emerging Leadership in People, Food and Fibre Industries micro-credential supports learners to grow their leadership practical skills and confidently lead teams across Aotearoa's people, food, and fibre industries. Horticulture New Zealand has been a key supporter of the Emerging Leadership micro-credential since 2021. Our involvement has helped ensure the programme remains deeply connected to industry needs, challenges, and aspirations of people working across the horticulture sector.
There are approximately 40,000 people working in the horticulture industry, creating a strong demand for leaders who can effectively manage and lead large teams. Horticulture workers are involved in high-volume activities such as picking, packing, and pruning etc. However, many people do not necessarily have the training needed to engage with and support their teams. Teams are often seasonal, it is especially important that leaders are equipped with the right skills to achieve the best outcomes for growers.
This micro-credential is designed to build emotional intelligence, sustain personal wellbeing, and strengthen culturally responsive leadership. It equips individuals with the confidence, communication, and interpersonal skills they need to thrive in their roles today—and step boldly into tomorrow’s opportunities.
Learners develop greater self-awareness, confidence and communication capability. This course covers key aspects of leadership, including cultural competency, self-reflection, interpersonal skills, and pastoral care.
With flexible learning options, this programme is delivered both in-person and online. Content is industry-focused, with in-person workshops, workplace tasks, and remote learning to suit a diverse range learners.
Fruition Horticulture will run three cohorts between May and August 2026, enrolments are open until May 2026.
Testimonials
"The programme has taught me to be more focused on people to get results than
results/outcomes alone. And to do that it's paramount that people feel heard,
appreciated, connected and well informed. I have also learned that empathy is a
huge indicator of the most inspirational leaders. At a certain level, management
becomes about creating an environment for staff to thrive and be set up for success
and less about the micromanagement of work tasks/workload."
- Participant from the 2025 cohort
"The Emerging Leaders Program has been truly transformative for me as a
leader. One of the most valuable skills I've developed is the ability to recognize
and manage my emotions, especially when they might interfere with my ability
to lead effectively. This heightened self-awareness has been a game-changer,
allowing me to stay centred and respond thoughtfully in challenging situations.
Moreover, I've learned to zoom out and consider wider aspects of any situation,
which has greatly enhanced my decision-making capabilities."
- Participant from the 2024 cohort
"My focus is sharper, and my patience has extended tenfold. I’m not letting my emotions eat me from within and I am able to stay above the line daily. My determination to be a great leader has grown exponentially now that I know what it takes to be one."
- Participant from the 2022 cohort