Young farmer turns passion into award-winning success

From a tender age, 2026 National Young Champion Farmer, Ricardo Genus, cultivated a passion for farming that has blossomed into a lifelong pursuit of innovation, excellence, and transformative leadership.

With approximately 145 acres under cultivation, Genus, who formally entered the agricultural sector at the age of 19, has embraced modern technology, diversified his crop production, and adopted practices that have enhanced both productivity and sustainability. Over the years, Genus, who proudly described farming as being in his DNA, has embraced an inclusive business model that empowers his workers by giving them a stake in the enterprise.

Genus, who hails from Golden Grove, St Ann, explained that, beyond the specialised tools, machinery and vehicles used for crop cultivation and livestock rearing, he also utilises technology such as drones, cameras and trained dogs to support his farming operations. He acknowledged the need for additional equipment to further expand production, including a harvester, a D4 or D6 bulldozer for land preparation, two Bobcats and a hay baler, which would enable him to produce hay for his animals and supply other farmers.