Headline: Bord Bia Launches Cultivating Talent Program for Aspiring Garden Designers
Navigating the Path to Gardening Success
Bord Bia has officially unveiled the third year of its innovative ‘Cultivating Talent’ program, sponsored by Westland Horticulture, aimed at cultivating the next generation of garden designers and horticultural professionals. This initiative is designed to provide financial support and one-on-one mentoring to emerging talents looking to showcase their first show garden at Bord Bia Bloom. Promising new designers like Joe Eustace, Nóra Tombor, and Sarah Buckley have successfully launched their unique gardens at this annual event, setting a high bar for creativity and environmental awareness.
Empowering Emerging Talent
The ‘Cultivating Talent’ program not only offers vital funding to first-time designers but also pairs them with experienced mentors to guide them through the complexities of show garden design. Joe Eustace, a graduate of the program, expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity: “I was following Bord Bia Bloom for years as a spectator… I heard about the Cultivating Talent initiative through my college network, and going from a spectator to being involved has given me a huge boost as a designer. I would say to anyone thinking of it, apply, apply, apply—100% go for it!”
Eustace’s firsthand experience highlights the impactful learning opportunities available through the program. He noted the importance of creating readable site drawings and understanding the distinctions between designing show gardens and client gardens. The significance of mentorship cannot be overstated; it often serves as the bridge between theory and real-world application.
Fostering a New Generation of Garden Designers
Kerrie Gardiner, Show Gardens and Horticulture Content Manager at Bord Bia Bloom, emphasized the need for initiatives like ‘Cultivating Talent’: “We want to create a pipeline of new talent into Ireland’s horticulture industry. Many prospective designers hesitate to participate due to financial concerns. By providing funding and mentorship, we hope to attract fresh faces and give first-time designers an opportunity to kick-start their careers.”
Who Should Apply?
The program is open to aspiring garden designers and landscape architects who wish to bring their inaugural show garden to Bord Bia Bloom in 2025. To qualify, applicants must possess a strong design vision that effectively communicates a unique story or theme. Additionally, designs should prioritize environmental sustainability and incorporate measures that support biodiversity, ensuring that gardens contribute positively to our ecosystems.
2025 Program Details
Westland Horticulture will once again be the primary sponsor of the ‘Cultivating Talent’ program. Their commitment aligns with the company’s ongoing campaign, “It’s Your Little Corner of Earth,” encouraging participants to demonstrate how they can enliven their own slice of the planet at Bord Bia Bloom 2025. This year’s event will take place from May 29 to June 2.
Application Process
Aspiring designers eager to kick-start their careers must submit their applications by Tuesday, November 26. For further information on how to apply, visit the official Bord Bia Bloom participation page at www.bordbiabloom.com/participate.
As Bord Bia continues to foster talent and innovation in gardening, the ‘Cultivating Talent’ program presents an incredible opportunity for passionate individuals to make their mark. We encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences related to gardening design. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a budding enthusiast, your perspectives enrich the conversation. How have mentorship and community initiatives impacted your journey in horticulture? Join the discussion!
Joe Eustace: Yes, Westland Horticulture’s support has been instrumental in promoting the program. Their reputation and resources allow us to reach a wider audience, encouraging more young designers to step forward and take advantage of this unique opportunity. The partnership is a testament to the importance of industry collaboration in nurturing the next generation of talent.
Interview with Guests:
Guest 1: Kerrie Gardiner, Show Gardens and Horticulture Content Manager at Bord Bia Bloom
Guest 2: Joe Eustace, Graduate of the ‘Cultivating Talent’ Program and Emerging Garden Designer
Theme: The Importance of Mentorship and Funding for Aspiring Garden Designers
Interviewer: Can you tell us about how the ‘Cultivating Talent’ program has helped aspiring garden designers like yourself navigate the path to success?
Kerrie Gardiner: The ‘Cultivating Talent’ program is essential for providing financial support and guidance to emerging talents looking to showcase their innovative ideas at Bord Bia Bloom. It’s a unique opportunity that allows designers to learn from experienced professionals and gain invaluable insights into the industry. By pairing them with mentors, we’re not only empowering them to create stunning show gardens but also helping them develop the skills necessary for future careers in horticulture. The program has had a significant impact on Joe’s journey as a designer.
Joe Eustace: Absolutely! Prior to participating in the program, I had very limited experience in designing show gardens. The mentorship I received from seasoned professionals was invaluable. They helped me understand the nuances of creating readable site drawings, which is a crucial aspect of successful design. I also learned about the differences between designing for a show and designing for a client garden, which was incredibly beneficial. The guidance and support I received through the program set me up for success and gave me the confidence to continue pursuing my passion for garden design.
Interviewer: How has the support from Westland Horticulture helped promote this initiative and encourage more aspiring designers to apply?
Kerrie Gardiner: Westland Horticulture’s sponsorship has been vital in making this program possible. Their ongoing commitment demonstrates their belief in our mission to support emerging talents and foster innovation in gardening. By offering financial assistance and highlighting the importance of environmental sustainability in show gardens, they are helping create a new generation of garden designers who prioritize eco-friendly
