Building on a supportive base

The 2025 Dairy Women’s Network (DWN) Regional Leader of the Year knows first-hand how hard it is to balance the farm and family life, which can be ever so demanding. 

“I have learnt I can’t do everything, but what I do matters most,” says Aimee Wilson.

Aimee grew up on a dairy farm in the Waikato region and studied a Bachelor of Commerce at Lincoln University. After studying, she worked in the agricultural industry as a research technician until she moved back to the family farm for the opportunity to go lower-order sharemilking on a small dairy farm near Korakanui. Aimee and her husband Chad, along with their four children, have since moved onto a larger dairy platform and continued as lower-order sharemilkers on the outskirts of Te Awamutu, milking 480 cows.

Previously, they were overseeing the farm they are on now and two other farms for Aimee’s parents, and between that and having children, the workload got too much, Aimee says.

“I was totally overloaded and I needed a breather. It made me rethink what’s important – a work-life balance, I needed something else just for me – that’s how I found DWN.”

DWN helped Aimee find a connection with like-minded women who understand the challenges of farming and family life. The network has also provided a platform for Aimee to grow her confidence and expand her skill set.

“We are a niche group of women with a similar purpose. There is always someone you can pull knowledge or support from; the friendships and connections I have made have been amazing.

“DWN is an organisation that gives back to you. Being a rural leader is a voluntary role; you give your time to do something for your community, but you also get so much back in return, in personal growth and leadership opportunities.

“It’s helped me grow so much confidence – just a few years ago I wouldn’t have thought I could do public speaking, and now I love it. You get these opportunities that push you outside your comfort zone, but you are doing it alongside an incredible network of women that support you along the way.”

Aimee won the Regional Leader of the Year Award at the DWN Conference in May, which recognises an outstanding contribution to leadership, community, and personal growth.

“Aimee Wilson is a quiet yet impactful leader who consistently pushes herself outside her comfort zone to grow personally and professionally,” says DWN Chief Executive Jules Benton.

“She’s known for her authenticity, and we love that she aligns with the DWN values. Her ability to connect with others and take initiative makes her a true role model.”

Aimee received a scholarship for a leadership development programme and will complete the Agri-Women’s Development Trust Next Level course in 2026.