THE APPLICATION PROCESS

The Award welcomes applications from individuals aged between 21 and 35 years (as at midnight on 31 October 2025), who are residents of either New Zealand or Australia and actively engaged in the primary sector within either country. Applications are open for the month of October.
 

ABOUT THE PROCESS
 

• To apply, simply fill out the online application form on this website in October. 

• Following the application process, the Zanda McDonald Award judges will create a shortlist from each country, and those shortlisted will be invited for an interview.

• Interviews will be conducted in person within each country and will include a presentation as part of the process.

• From the interviews, three finalists will be chosen in each country and will be invited to attend the Impact Summit the following year. Becoming an Award finalist also means joining the prestigious Award alumni.

• Winners will be announced at the Impact Summit during the Celebration Dinner.

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BE PREPARED

Here's what you'll need to have ready to apply online. During the application timeframe, 1-31 October, you will be able to save and go back to your form to add, or make changes.
 

• Short Bio (80 words). 
  Tell us who you are, what you do, where you're from, and what you're proud of. Tip: Keep it punchy and impactful.
   

• Written Statement (250 words). 
  Share how you'd benefit from mentoring, your 5-year goals, how you show  leadership/influence, and why you'd be a great ambassador for the Award. Tip: Be personal, specific, and future-focused. Use examples to show real impact.
   

• 1-Minute max Video Clip.
  Introduce yourself, what you do, what you love about your industry, and how you’re making your mark. Tip: No need for fancy editing—just be confident and clear.
   

• Supporting Documents. 
  Required: Your CV.
  Optional: Documents that could be references, project summaries or articles.
   

• A Head Shot: 
  A hi res picture is required for publication if you are shortlisted.
   

• Referees:  You'll need to supply the name, email address and phone number of two referees - in case you're shortlisted.
   

• Employer Consent (if relevant).
  Make sure your employer is on board.
   

• Availability.
  If you are shortlisted, you must be available to attend in-person interviews 1-2 December 2025 and attend the Impact Summit 9-12 March 2026. The winners also commit to two one-week trans-Tasman mentoring trips.

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JUDGING CRITERIA
 

Your application will be judged on the following criteria:

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1.    Thorough completion of the application

2.    Details on what your current role means to you and how you see yourself contributing to the future of your industry

3.    Ability to explain why you deserve to win this award and how you would benefit from a tailored mentoring trip.

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For any questions about registering, applications, or the award process, please contact hello@zandamcdonaldaward.com
 

For a full list of terms and conditions please click here

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