Some good advice from a New Zealand-based aunt led Kyle Villanueva to come to Telford where he immersed himself in the local environment, made it home, and got the most out of his agricultural training
From Negros Oriental, Philippines, Kyle and his family were originally from the city of Cebu. “When my parents retired from work they decided to move and live in my grandmother’s hometown in the province in Negros Oriental, which is the next island to the west of Cebu.”
Kyle’s life was about to undergo a significant change when his aunt, who lives in NZ, was back in the Philippines on holiday and saw Kyle managing his piggery business.
“She asked me if I was interested in learning more about farming, and if I wanted to study in New Zealand to enhance my knowledge and apply it to the future plans of my farming business,” Kyle explains.
When Kyle’s aunt returned to NZ after her holiday, she immediately started looking for the best institution that offered farming and agriculture studies. “Telford [was] the top in her research, and through enquiries, both word of mouth and reviews, and feedback on the internet,” Kyle says.
After he was accepted as an international student at Telford, Kyle admits he had little knowledge of New Zealand and its education system. “All I knew at that time was New Zealand is one of the best suppliers of milk and dairy products in the world.”
Completing Farming Systems and Equipment (level 3), Kyle learned how farms operate, how to safely use and maintain farm machinery, and how to support livestock, crops, and sustainable farm practices.
“Telford is a very accommodating institution; they provide a wide range of information, tools and assistance to both local and international students.”
Waking up early and doing the job on his own were big adjustments Kyle had to make and were quite different to what he was used to. “…In the Philippines we have a lot of people that we can hire anytime to help, but in New Zealand you have to do all the work from start to finish,” he explains.
Kyle says Telford rewarded him with strong friendships, approachable tutors, practical hands-on learning, and the advantages of a supportive student lifestyle and quality facilities.
“I benefited from Telford’s support beyond the classroom through mentoring, industry connections, and career guidance that helped prepare me for employment.”
Upon completion of his programme, at the 2025 graduation ceremony, Kyle was awarded the George A Holmes Cup in Livestock: Telford Farm Board of Management Practical Award for the best Dairy Livestock. Kyle exemplified excellence in all things dairy, from practical skills, to using new technology, and performing well in all his training.
Having been offered a job locally in the Balclutha area, Kyle is waiting for his work visa to be approved. “I will enhance my experience by working in New Zealand and giving back what I have learned.”
Eventually, Kyle will head home with all the learning he gained at Telford and working in farming here, and apply it to the agriculture industry in the Philippines.
“Studying at Telford has made me more confident, independent, and practical in how I approach challenges and problem-solving.”