Announcing reflections from our West Australian conference scholars
September 27, 2023
The Crawford Fund’s Annual Conference was held earlier this month in Canberra and online.
As well as bringing together the world’s leading experts in agricultural science, research, policy, development and industry, the Crawford Fund encourages the next generation in international agriculture for development to the event via scholarships awarded through our State and Territory committees and scholar supporters.
Our competitive conference scholarship program started in 2010 in the hope that by experiencing the Crawford Fund conference and network, our special program of activities around the conference and being mentored by inspirational experienced researchers, young researchers would be inspired and energised to be more involved. The results have been fantastic, with a great mix of youth and experience at our flagship event each year and a growing and enthusiastic conference scholar alumni approaching 450.
Our other activities to encourage university students and early career researcher include highlighting opportunities in volunteering for projects overseas; our work with Researchers in Agriculture for International Development (RAID), and our special international student awards to enable students to be involved in overseas projects as part of their university study.
One of the requirements of the scholarship is that each scholar provides us with a reflection on their experience. We will be providing these reflections over the coming weeks, grouped by State.
We would like to thank our wonderful mentors, mentioned alongside the scholar they supported, who volunteer their time and offer valuable guidance, support and insights to the scholars throughout the conference.
Three scholars from Western Australia attended the 2023 Crawford Fund conference, supported by our West Australian Committee. Highlights of their experiences have been captured below:
Christophe d’Abbadie, Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development WA
“This experience has not only broadened my perspective but has also deepened my understanding of the challenges associated with global food production and the imperative of ensuring future food security worldwide. Moreover, it has reaffirmed the significance of my agricultural research endeavours and instilled confidence in my future pursuits.”
Harrison Keymer, The University of Western Australia
“The opportunity to engage with leading thinkers in international agricultural development was nothing short of incredible. It was inspiring to hear Dr. Cary Fowler, U.S. Special Envoy for Global Food Security, emphasise the fundamental importance of healthy soils as the foundation for feeding the world’s population, reminding us to “get back to basics” to tackle food insecurity. In a world often fixated on technological innovation and engineering our way out of problems, this perspective was refreshingly grounded.”
Md Shahinur Rahman, Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development WA
“Organising dedicated sessions for young scholars made the Crawford Fund conference unique for me. It facilitated knowing and networking with my future colleagues/team to battle the immense challenges together that are lying ahead. I am highly pumped and look forward to working together to ensure global food security.”
Read on for the full reflections of each WA scholar:
Christophe d’Abbadie, Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development WA
Mentor: Di Mayberry
Participating in the 2023 Crawford Fund Annual Conference, which revolved around the theme of “Global Food Security in an Increasingly Uncertain World: Enhancing Resilient Food and Nutrition Systems,” was an exceptional opportunity for me. Being selected as one of the scholars to attend this conference was a privilege that I deeply appreciate. This experience has not only broadened my perspective but has also deepened my understanding of the challenges associated with global food production and the imperative of ensuring future food security worldwide. Moreover, it has reaffirmed the significance of my agricultural research endeavours and instilled confidence in my future pursuits.
The Scholar Program offered during the conference was truly outstanding. It provided a unique chance to connect with seasoned professionals, fostering a profound passion for generating impactful results in international development through research and work. The roster of distinguished speakers at the conference not only expanded my knowledge but also ignited a deeper interest in addressing global challenges. Furthermore, the mentoring aspect of the program was pivotal in my professional development. My mentor proved to be an invaluable guide, facilitating introductions to other professionals and engaging in insightful discussions about the implications of my work for international development. Their support and guidance greatly contributed to advancing my research and career aspirations.
The entire conference and Scholar Program have played a pivotal role in enhancing my understanding of critical global issues and expanding my network. The conference acted as a convergence point, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds, each contributing a unique perspective on global challenges. Through engaging conversations, both within and outside of formal conference sessions, I had the privilege of forging meaningful connections with professionals, researchers, and experts in the field. These connections have already proven to be valuable assets, providing opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and potential partnerships in the future.
Beyond the immediate networking advantages, the conference and Scholar Program encouraged me to think globally and holistically about the impact of my work. They reinforced the notion that addressing complex issues like international development and food security necessitates a multifaceted approach and collaboration across disciplines. As I continue my journey in the field of agriculture and international development, I carry with me not only a wealth of new knowledge but also a network of passionate individuals committed to making a positive difference in the world. This experience underscores the importance of events like this in fostering innovation, understanding, and collaboration in our collective pursuit of a more sustainable and secure future for all.
Among the many enlightening sessions at the conference, two talks particularly stood out to me as exceptionally relevant and impactful. The first was Professor Wendy Umberger’s discourse on “On-Farm Risks for Resilient Food and Nutrition Systems.” Her insights were not only deeply encouraging but also insightful, shedding light on how on-farm risks significantly influence decision-making processes for farmers. Professor Umberger’s ability to delve into the intricate dynamics of risk management within agriculture was captivating, underscoring the need for resilient systems to ensure food security.
The second talk that left a lasting impression was delivered by Emeritus Professor Kym Anderson on the topic of “Addressing Off-Farm Impediments to Global Food Security.” This presentation illuminated the critical role of supply chains in the broader context of food production. Professor Anderson’s discussion underscored the undeniable importance of addressing off-farm challenges and impediments to ensure the smooth functioning of global food supply chains, thereby contributing to the overarching goal of achieving global food security. These insights have enriched my understanding of the complexities within the food production landscape and will undoubtedly inform my future research and efforts in the field of agriculture and food security.
In conclusion, my participation in the 2023 Crawford Fund Annual Conference and the Scholar Program was a transformative experience. It not only expanded my knowledge and network but also reinforced my commitment to addressing the global challenges of food security and international development. The conference served as a catalyst for collaboration and innovation, reminding me of the collective responsibility we bear in ensuring a sustainable and secure future for all. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity, and I look forward to applying the knowledge and connections gained to make a meaningful impact in the field of agriculture and food security.
Harrison Keymer, The University of Western Australia
Mentor: Vivienne Anthony
It was an immense privilege to attend the 2023 Crawford Conference, themed “Global Food Security in a Riskier World: Diversification for Resilient Food and Nutrition Systems.” It was a truly transformative experience. In a world gripped by uncertainty, maintaining clarity and optimism when contemplating future academic and career aspirations can be challenging. However, I now feel better equipped to effect positive change in these endeavours because of the invaluable learnings and network connections the conference has provided.
I was extremely privileged to be matched with Vivienne Anthony from the Syngenta Foundation for Sustainable Agriculture as my mentor, who was amazing in facilitating my learning and networking throughout the scholar and conference activities. Viv imparted some of her boundless wisdom and reinforced to me the importance of whole-system and critical thinking approaches. I felt supported and encouraged to ask questions and strike up conversations with some of the most pre-eminent thinkers in international agricultural development—who were always more than happy to chat.
Being part of such a diverse scholar cohort enriched the experience further, as I gained insights from fellow scholars and learned about their backgrounds and experiences. It was inspiring to talk with like-minded individuals who are early in their careers and so passionate about sustainable development and food systems. The scholars’ days activities provided invaluable advice and guidance for our future endeavours in agricultural development. It was eye-opening to hear about the plethora of avenues, including volunteering and research opportunities through the Crawford Fund, ACIAR, and RAID.
The broad range of speakers and topics were stimulating, and it was fascinating to hear some of the same themes raised throughout the different presentations. As a social sciences student, I was particularly delighted to hear the importance of social sciences and cross-disciplinary approaches in tackling complex and wicked problems. Connections and collaborations were noted as a key tool for achieving global food and nutrition security, including by CEO of CIFOR-ICRAF Éliane Ubalijoro. Éliane’s Sir John Crawford Memorial Address highlighted the need for global partnerships and collective approaches to feeding the world, and her personal story was inspiring.
The opportunity to engage with leading thinkers in international agricultural development was nothing short of incredible. It was inspiring to hear Dr. Cary Fowler, U.S. Special Envoy for Global Food Security, emphasise the fundamental importance of healthy soils as the foundation for feeding the world’s population, reminding us to “get back to basics” to tackle food insecurity. In a world often fixated on technological innovation and engineering our way out of problems, this perspective was refreshingly grounded.
The framing of “on-farm” and “off-farm” risks and solutions during the conference was effective and useful for conceptualising global food and nutrition security. The presentations of various solutions, including Prof. Kadambot Siddique’s underutilised crops, provided practical examples of how research can make a real difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity.
This quote from Dr. Cary Fowler’s keynote presentation resonated with me, and it nicely summarises the main takeaways from my experience as a Crawford Scholar: “I think we have to be ambitious and aspirational and perhaps go for a few Moon shots.”
Md Shahinur Rahman, Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development WA
Mentor: Lyn Abbott
Attending the Crawford Fund Annual Conference 2023 Focusing on “Global Food Security in a Riskier World: Diversification for Resilient Food and Nutrition Systems” was one of the finest opportunities to meet, greet, network and learn from world-leading scientists and researchers. I consider myself lucky and blessed to be selected as one of the scholars to attend this conference. This conference has broadened my vision and widened my understanding of the world’s food production systems and the challenges we will face to ensure future global food security. As a young scientist, it helped me to realise the significance of the agriculture research I am doing and boosted my confidence for future endeavours.
All the conference sessions were very informative and inspirational for young scholars. Listening and meeting Dr Cary Fowler and learning about the importance of indigenous crops and his contribution to securing more than 1 million unique crop varieties, the biological foundation of agriculture and the raw material for all future plant breeding and crop improvement efforts was magnificent. Learning about future smart crops to improve dietary diversity and fight hunger and malnutrition from Professor Kadambot Siddique, UWA was exceptional. Learning about insect farming and how it might contribute to economic development and recycling food waste presented by Dr Fathiya Mbarak Khamis was promising. I left with the understanding that the importance of collaboration and interdisciplinary research is unbeatable. Knowing about Dr Éliane Ubalijoro’s story and how she progressed while facing immense difficulties was inspirational and motivational and left me with an understanding of the power of dedication in life.
Two things that struck me hard were: i) 70% of current food production needed to be increased by 2050 to feed the global population and ii) the number of children suffering from malnutrition and stunting growth age below 5. These two things I believe will be enough to push me to keep going and contribute to agricultural research. I really appreciate the amount of commitment and effort that ACIAR is putting forward to contribute the agricultural research development in underdeveloped and developing countries. I wholeheartedly believe this input by ACIAR will significantly contribute to ensuring global food security.
Knowing what has already been done and what needs to be done is unavoidable to contribute to future research. The Crawford Fund conference has provided an excellent platform for that by gathering all the prominent seniors, mid-career and young scholars to close that loop and create a bridge among them. Introducing mentors for young scholars was one of the finest ideas to link among the group. I must appreciate the assistance I received from my mentor Emeritus Professor Lyn Abbott, UWA to build that network.
Lastly, organising one and a half days of dedicated sessions for young scholars has made the Crawford Fund conference unique to me. It facilitated knowing and networking with my future colleagues/team to battle the immense challenges together that are lying ahead. I am highly pumped and look forward to working together to ensure global food security.
