My name is Harshwardhan Mane, and I graduated from the International Agribusiness and Trade programme at Van Hall Larenstein in 2023. Coming from a farming family in India, I saw early on the challenges that farmers face. Not only in growing crops, but especially in selling them fairly and effectively. That experience inspired me to pursue a future where local farmers could access international markets, and this programme gave me the tools to make that vision a reality.

Why I chose this programme

To further deepen my knowledge and gain practical skills, I chose to study at VHL in the Netherlands. The university’s strong focus on sustainable agriculture, international markets, and hands-on learning aligned perfectly with my career vision. I was particularly drawn to the programme’s emphasis on connecting theory with real-world applications.

My long-term goal has been to create an international marketplace for Indian farmers, bridging the gap between local producers and global buyers. The programme equipped me with the expertise and global perspective needed to empower rural communities and make a meaningful impact in the agricultural sector.

Study moments and highlights

My VHL program closely matched my passion and goal of launching a fresh produce export-import business. What stood out was the hands-on, practical learning through modules like Export-Import Planning, Financial Analysis, and Feasibility Reporting.

Courses such as Sustainable Business Development, Supply Chain and Quality Management, CRM, HRM, and International Trade gave me a complete picture of managing agribusinesses from farm to consumer.

A highlight was the Management Game, where we ran a simulated agricultural company. It sharpened my decision-making, teamwork, and operational skills by blending theory with real-world practice.

The program’s emphasis on sustainability and innovation taught me how to create value responsibly. Memorable experiences included visits to top agribusinesses, trade fairs, and networking events, offering global industry exposure. Supportive faculty and a diverse international student group made the journey enriching, empowering me with the skills and confidence to pursue my agribusiness ambitions.

What I gained and where I am now

This program truly changed my life. It gave me clarity, confidence, and a real sense of direction. I learned how to build an international agribusiness from scratch, picking up practical experience in everything from export planning and quality control to global trade, finance, and supply chain logistics.

After graduating from Van Hall Larenstein, I jumped right in. I travelled across Europe and met with major importers, especially in the grape market, a crop that’s part of my family’s farming roots. I was creating real connections between Indian farmers and buyers overseas. And I knew what I was doing because VHL prepared me for it.

That dream is now becoming real.

Today, I lead a Farmer Producer Company in India, with more than 650 farmer-shareholders and over 1,500 member farmers. I handle procurement, planning, quality, and international sales. In our very first season, we exported 25 containers of grapes to top supermarkets in the Netherlands and across the EU. Since then, we’ve added bananas, pomegranates, and onions to markets across Asia and the Middle East.

From the farms of rural India to classrooms in the Netherlands, and now to global trade routes this is the path I’ve taken. And VHL played a huge role in getting me here.

My advice to future students

If you’re thinking about joining the programme and have a dream of making a real difference in agribusiness, this is the place to begin.

This program is about getting real-world experience, seeing the industry up close, and working on practical projects that help you understand how global agriculture really works. Whether you come from a farming background like I do, or you're simply passionate about sustainable food systems and international trade, you'll find the tools, support, and opportunities you need to bring your ideas to life.

Make the most of every project, every field visit, and every chat with your lecturers. Each one matters. Stay curious, stay open, and don’t be afraid to think big. What you learn here can help you start a career and help you create meaningful change in communities, businesses, and markets.

For me, this programme was the bridge between my family’s small farm in India and building a global export business. It can be the start of something big for you too, if you’re ready to take the leap.