At just 22 years old, Eleni Fogden of Loxton, South Australia is proving to be one of the most dynamic young leaders in the state’s livestock sector.
Having recently completed her Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) online through the University of South Australia, Ms Fogden is already balancing a busy slate of commitments across the South Australian beef and feedlotting industries—balancing leadership roles, co-founding a growing feedlot enterprise, and recently wrapping up nearly five years in an accounting role.
Recently appointed President of Charolais Youth Australia, she is also entering her third year as Secretary of the South Australian Young Beef Breeders (SAYBB).
Ms Fogden has recently been appointed President of Charolais Youth Australia. Pic: Supplied
Her passion for cattle and rural leadership was instilled early, growing up on a mixed farm near Loxton that runs cropping, cattle, and citrus.
In a family effort, Ms Fogden helps to run 'Boulview', the family’s Charolais stud, alongside her brother and sister.
Ms Fogden is involved with showing both Santa Gertrudis and Charolais stud cattle. Pic: Supplied
The Charolais sit alongside their 'Nangaringa' Santa Gertrudis stud, with Ms Fogden managing the books and helping guide both operations.
Beyond the show ring and office, Ms Fogden and her partner, Kylen Malycha, have teamed up with another young couple to establish a rapidly growing feedlot operation in Loxton, Victoria, called 'Tookayerta'.
“It was supposed to just be a little side hustle,” she said.
“But it grew very quickly. Stage one was supposed to be 5,000 head by June 30, and we hit that number by the end of March. Stage two is already underway—we’re looking to double in the next couple of months.”
Loading sheep at the Tookyerta Feedlot. Pic: Supplied
The project has taken off thanks in part to Mr Malycha’s hands-on experience in feedlot design and construction, as well as his current role as a livestock agent.
Together, the team transformed a bare paddock into a fully operational feedlot.
“Kylen had built feedlots before and could weld and deliver infrastructure himself. We started from scratch, so it’s been really rewarding to see how far it’s come.”
To support the growth of their business, Ms Fogden and the team behind 'Tookayerta' have been involved in Livestock SA’s AgRi-Silience Program, which provides expert guidance in business strategy, risk management, and on-farm resilience.
She said the support from local facilitators and specialists has been vital in building a solid foundation for the business.
Meanwhile, she is also preparing to take on a major event planning role through Charolais Youth Australia, helping organise the national Charolais Youth Camp in January 2026.
“Working closely with rural clients has definitely helped my communication and people skills,” she said.
“That’s been a big part of what I bring to Charolais Youth and the SAYBB.”
Like many South Australian producers, she is confronting the realities of another harsh, dry season.
“It’s very, very dry. I’ve seen tough times before, but not like this,” she said.
“But in difficult times, you really see the community come together. My partner was just at a farmers’ mental health day yesterday. That kind of support is so important right now.”
Despite the challenges, Ms Fogden remains optimistic about the future—particularly with young people continuing to step up across the industry.
“When youth face adversity, they find ways to innovate. I think we’re going to keep seeing great things from young people in South Australian livestock.”
