Global Footprints Scholarships

Celebrate centenary year with exceptional horticulture scholars

The Global Footprints Scholarships program celebrated its centenary year on 22 September 2025 at Botanic House Sydney, honouring 25 talented young people in agriculture, horticulture and vocational trades. The scholarships, which focus on sustainability and practical leadership, provide scholars with the opportunity to gain international experience and broaden their knowledge in their chosen fields.

This year’s cohort includes a remarkable group of horticulture scholars who are poised to make a significant impact on the industry and the environment.

2025 Global Footprints Horticulture Scholars:

• Jaimee Abrahams (NSW) plans to explore climate change adaptation in horticulture, visiting educational and rehabilitation gardens at destinations including Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh and Thrive Birmingham.

• Sianna Aslat (SA) will explore sustainable horticulture and eco-design, with a focus on water harvesting, organic food production and green infrastructure at Earthship Biotecture sites worldwide.

• Hannah Downie (VIC) plans to research global plant diversity, climate-compatible plantings, and traditional gardening in the UK at Kew Gardens, the Chelsea Flower Show and Great Dixter.

• Amy Drought (QLD) plans to explore permaculture and therapeutic horticulture, travelling through Europe, including Kew Gardens and projects in Norway and Sweden. Amy’s scholarship is generously supported by the James N. Kirby Foundation.

• Joe Firmager (NSW) will travel to research sustainable materials, biofertilisers, aquaponics, and biotech, travelling to the UK including Kew Gardens, Eden Project, and BIOHM in London. Joe’s scholarship is generously supported by the Pike family.

• Flynn Noakes (VIC) will explore sustainable urban horticulture and community-based practices in South America (Brazil, Costa Rica, Argentina).

• Lee Rose (SA) will focus on native plants, garden design and nursery management, travelling to the UK including Kew Gardens and Petersham Nursery.

• Matthew Prow (NSW) will focus on sustainable practices in botanical gardens and urban design in Singapore.

• Cameron Ung (VIC) plans to research urban greening, biodiversity, hydroponics, and sustainable green spaces in the Netherlands.

‘The horticulture scholars this year exemplify creativity, innovation and a commitment to sustainability,’ said Suellen McCaffrey, CEO of BBM Ltd, ‘Their ideas and scholarship plans promise to strengthen environmental stewardship and community engagement, bringing international perspectives back to Australia.’

A further 16 Scholarships were awarded in agriculture, viticulture, trades, manufacturing, hospitality, transport and construction. Scholars will travel globally to enhance their skills, from regenerative farming practices in Canada and Europe to sustainable building and energy solutions in Germany, Denmark and Japan, as well as culinary and refrigeration innovations with a sustainability lens.

Since its beginnings in 1925 as the Big Brother Movement, the program has supported more than 1,100 scholars to explore the world, gain professional expertise and make meaningful contributions to their communities.