A NEW generation of leaders has been announced ahead of the 2021 Barossa Vintage Festival, as part of the Barossa Young Ambassador program.

The program identifies and raises the profile of future community leaders, while acknowledging that young people play an important role in the community and are essential for the future of the Barossa’s vibrant wine, food, cultural and tourism industries.

The 11 chosen ambassadors will spend the next nine months working on their own individual projects, participate in training and networking activities and be involved in planning and promotion of key Barossa Vintage Festival events.

They will be guided and mentored by Maddy Hopgood, the current Barossa Young Ambassador and previous participant in the program.

“The new participants are enthusiastic and willing to lean and help,” Miss Hopgood said.

“They are such a diverse cohort, with many ambassadors already involved in the local community in a variety of ways.

“During what has been a tough year for everyone, I think this group of Young Ambassadors will help keep the Barossa’s community spirt alive throughout the 2021 Barossa Vintage Festival.”

Festival Director Jenny O’Brien said the 2021 Barossa Vintage Festival has been earmarked as pivotal and timely celebration for the Barossa community.

“We are excited to look ahead to the 2021 Barossa Vintage Festival and to be able to deliver five days of fun and festivities,” she said.

“It’s about giving the local community and potential travellers something exciting to look forward to.

“Our Young Ambassadors will play an integral part in ensuring the Festival is a vibrant celebration for everyone to enjoy.

“We look forward to their fresh new ideas and concepts to help the Barossa deliver a magical Festival.”

The program allows participants to build connections for the future and be exposed to new opportunities through peer to peer mentoring and support from successful business and community leaders.