Courtney Chamberlain pushed herself out of her comfort zone on a recent Outward Bound course with help from the Fruitfed Supplies Leadership award she won at our 2022 competition. The award recognises the finalist who demonstrates outstanding leadership during the competition.
Leadership was shown in many ways during the course, says Courtney. “Leadership to me is not always taking charge, but forming connections with those around you, to help when needed and to support people in a way that is constructive to them. Everyone is different, and so are their ideas and feelings. To enable those around you to be comfortable enough to share their ideas with the workplace can be a challenge but true leadership is creating that environment where everyone feels safe, supported and valued”.
Courtney is the 6th generation to farm at Hadstock Farm in Canterbury, where they specialise in growing spring flowering bulbs, flowers such as peonies and lilies, and run 500 cattle. As the farm manager, she manages a large team of seasonal employees, some who have worked there for over 15 years. Courtney says, “It’s rewarding to create a positive work environment where employees look forward to working with us and enjoy what they do”.
Back at work after Outward Bound, Courtney says she will always be grateful for the opportunity the Fruitfed Supplies Leadership award has given her to experience a boost in self-confidence, to push out of her comfort zone and reflect on how to lead a more productive workplace.
The winner of the 2024 Fruitfed Supplies Leadership award is Taylor Leabourn.
.
