Robyn Verrall, a dedicated agripreneur from Keith, captured international attention by winning Silver at the 2024 Women Changing the World Awards held in London. The award, presented in recognition of her contributions to regional and rural development and her empowering efforts towards women and girls, places Robyn among the most influential global personalities in agriculture and community support.
The prestigious event, where Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, and Dr. Tererai Trent played prominent roles, focuses on global achievements in sustainability, humanitarian work, and leadership. Robyn’s accolade came as a result of her impactful work in promoting gender equality and dismantling biases in rural communities. Robyn expressed her sentiments about her win, acknowledging the encouragement given by the Duchess of York: "It’s like the Duchess said, women need to have their voices heard and not be silent whispers. Mine is one voice that can change and impact the lives of many, we have to keep talking."
The awards ceremony distinguishes women who contribute significantly to different sectors. Dr. Tererai Trent highlighted the broader significance, stating, “These exceptional women are here to awaken hearts, give permission to recapture dreams and inspire the women of the world to come together to forge a brighter path for all. The rising of women is the awakening of everybody.
A resident of Keith and former winner of the AgriFuture’s Rural Women’s Award, Robyn has had a considerable impact not just locally, but globally. Having been nominated as a finalist in three categories, including Woman in Agriculture &Farming, Rural & Regional Areas Impact, and the People’s Choice Award – Non-Profit, her work has gained substantial recognition.
Robyn’s award isn’t the only incredible thing on her resume. In addition to the accolade, Robyn successfully established Bully’s Meats, a thriving beef export business combined with a local lamb delivery service. She also co-founded Kere to Country, aiding Indigenous communities combat food poverty through sustainable meat distribution.
Robyn also initiated Harvesting Potential, focusing on education and entrepreneurship opportunities to enhance food security. Her considerable contributions have earned her numerous other accolades, such as the 2022 SA AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award. Prior to the award celemony, Robyn reflected on her nominations, saying, "I am thrilled to be nominated and subsequently become a finalist in all three award categories. To me, I do what I do without the expectation of anything in return. But I must admit that it is a nice feeling to be recognised on a global base for the work and impact I have made."
