Originally training as a teacher, in 2011 Leonard and her husband entered into a farm equity partnership with her parents, where she continues to milk and rear calves while teaching children with learning disabilities part-time.
Leonard said receiving the Dairy Community Leadership award was acknowledgement of her commitment to promoting the dairy farming lifestyle.
"It's an honour to receive the Dairy Community Leadership Award. The dairy industry is in my heart and soul, and seeing others be involved and succeed is a really great feeling.
"For me, connection is all about authenticity and inclusion – whether that's sharing a positive story about the industry or putting my hand up to question something. I pride myself on being a positive role model to others."
Leonard regularly promotes and hosts visits to her farm with playcentres, kindergartens, primary schools, colleges and visitors.
"Sharing a positive story and my love for our cows and our land is something I aim to do daily, whether that's on social media, at school, at an event or socialising. I never let an opportunity to share go past.
"Long-term I would love to encourage more people to enter our industry and help them take advantage of the wonderful opportunities out there."
Leonard also supports AgITO students, chairs her children's school's Board of Trustees, is patron of Taupo Family Playcentre and is on the Taupo board of the Rural Education Activities Programme (REAP).
Dairy Women's Network chief executive Zelda de Villiers said Leonard's passion for dairy farming and her community comes through in everything she does.
"She's a big supporter of diversity in the farming workplace and is always the first to lend a hand on the farm or help someone through a personal issue.
"It was very clear to us that Kylie is someone who is very visible in her community and leads by example. Her passion for the dairy industry is infectious, and her dedication to sharing her passion and the knowledge and skills she has built up make her a truly worthy recipient of the Dairy Community Leadership award," de Villiers said.
Leonard will receive a scholarship, sponsored by ASB and Tompkins Wake, to attend the Community and Enterprise Leadership Programme at the University of Waikato.
