Hakeem Ojo was an FCN Board Apprentice between 2024 and 2025. Below Hakeem has shared his experience as part of our Board of Trustees. Thank you, Hakeem, for your insights and support.
My time with The Farming Community Network (FCN) Board of Trustees was a period of growth, learning, and valuable exposure. The two years I spent as a Board Apprentice provided an exceptional opportunity to prepare for board-level responsibilities, and the experience has equipped me with the confidence and insight to take on such roles in the future.
The FCN Board of Trustees is made up of accomplished and well-connected individuals from across the agricultural and food sector. Engaging with them reshaped the way I approach complex issues and strategic decision-making. The trustees’ range of expertise and industry understanding created an ideal environment to explore diverse perspectives and observe how multifaceted challenges are addressed at the highest level. My time on the board also opened doors to meaningful professional relationships that will undoubtedly shape my career. I was encouraged to contribute openly, offering fresh perspective and learning from others’ depth of experience.
As part of my time with the board, I worked with two sub-committees; Investment and Audit & Risk. My particular interest lay with the Investment sub-committee, which focuses on safeguarding FCN’s long-term financial sustainability by curating and monitoring investment strategies across different investment options. These smaller groups provided a chance to work more closely with trustees, gaining hands-on insight into governance and organisational control. The experience deepened my understanding of financial oversight, accountability, and strategic foresight.
The management team ensured my two years were both purposeful and engaging. I represented FCN at events across the country, witnessing first-hand the vital role the charity plays within the UK farming community. The team’s support made it easy to integrate into board activities and contribute meaningfully while developing professionally.
My time on the FCN board has been transformative, containing a blend of mentorship, learning, and strategic exposure. It has not only strengthened my readiness for future board positions but also provided lessons in leadership, governance, and collaboration. The apprenticeship stands as a defining step in my professional journey and a bridge to greater opportunities within the industry.