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Shaping future ag leaders

Nex Gen Agriculture Program begins seventh cohort

Apr 8, 2026 | 1:49 PM

The Saskatchewan Next Gen Agriculture Mentorship Program announced the mentor – mentee pairings for cohort seven.  

This 18-month program provides emerging agricultural leaders with hands-on leadership development and opportunities to participate in decision-making that shapes the future of Saskatchewan’s agriculture industry.  

Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister David Marit said the program has been influential in developing the next generation of agriculture leadership in the province. 

“Thanks to the dedication of our mentors, participants gain the knowledge and confidence to lead the industry forward,” Marit said. 

Participants of the program gain experience in agricultural boards and their governance, agriculture advocacy, business development, networking, media management, and financial management.  

Canadian Western Agribition CEO Shaun Kindopp said cohort 7 represents the next wave of leadership in Canadian agriculture. 

“Through mentorship and shared learning, Agribition is proud to support this group of emerging leaders as they continue to grow, challenge perspectives, and strengthen their leadership skills,” Kindopp said. “Their drive, curiosity, and commitment to the industry will help shape the future of agriculture in Canada.” 

This year’s mentees and mentors are: 

  • Alexa Berezowski, paired with mentor Cody McNernie;
  • Cheyenne Quam, paired with mentor Krystal Tendler;
  • Holly Sparrow, paired with mentor Nicole Jones;
  • Jessica Davey, paired with mentor Alan Jackson;
  • Kaitlyn Kochanowski, paired with mentor Blake MacMillan;
  • Mark McMurphy, paired with mentor Todd Andries;
  • Kennedy MacNeil, paired with mentor Tom Harrison; and
  • Cassidy Ross, paired with mentor Kelly Cruise.

Mentees are selected by the Agribition Advisory Committee based on their application and letters of reference.

Applicants must demonstrate clear strategic goals, strong leadership potential and a commitment to contributing to the agriculture community. Preference is given to individuals without access to similar leadership development opportunities. 

alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com

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