Speakers

Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones, widely known as The Black Farmer, is an award-winning entrepreneur, farmer, and advocate for diversity in British farming. Born in Jamaica and raised in inner-city Birmingham as part of the Windrush generation, Wilfred overcame numerous challenges, including undiagnosed dyslexia and leaving school without qualifications. He found solace in tending his father's allotment, which sparked his dream of owning a farm. At 40, he fulfilled this dream by purchasing a small farm on the Devon-Cornwall border, where he launched The Black Farmer brand, known for its high-quality sausages and other food products sold in major supermarkets.

Wilfred's mission extends beyond his business. He is passionate about promoting diversity in farming, working tirelessly to inspire and support new entrants from non-farming backgrounds. He has established numerous initiatives, including collaborations with the Royal Agricultural University and the New Faces for Farming project. Despite facing serious health challenges, including a battle with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia, Wilfred's resilience and commitment to community engagement remain unwavering. His efforts have been widely recognised, earning him an MBE and various honorary degrees for his contributions to farming and business.