New initiative to support the next generation of ag leaders

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“We’ve listened to young farmers across the country and are excited to work together to provide a national gathering space and dedicated programming and development opportunities,” Watson said. 

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The launch follows months of discussion about the need for a national platform while respecting the autonomy and work already happening in regions and production sectors across the country. 

As a national, non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to advancing farm business management excellence, Farm Management Canada was identified by young farmer organizations and sector partners as a natural fit to convene and support the initiative through its national network, experience delivering learning and leadership programs, and commitment to collaboration. 

The initiative will focus on farmers under 40 and include leadership and professional development, mentorship, networking and learning events, resources and tools. Priority topics include farm financial literacy, risk management and business planning, farm transition and succession planning, farm leadership and governance, communications and advocacy skills, and industry engagement and representation. 

Canadian Young Farmers Council will lead the group. Its representatives will include provincial and territorial young farmer groups, with support from an industry advisory committee made up of representatives from agricultural institutions, businesses and organizations that champion young farmer education, leadership and development. 

Russell Reitsema, a third-generation farmer and director with BC Young Farmers, said young farmers are vital to the industry’s future and are ready to take on bigger roles with the right platform and programming in place. 

“As we cultivate the next generation of farm leaders, I’m proud and excited to be involved in Canada’s Young Farmers and to help bring young farmer perspectives to a national stage,” Reitsema said. 

The Canadian Federation of Agriculture and Farm Credit Canada are supporting the initiative as national partners. It is funded in part by the federal government through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. 

The initiative welcomes additional support from industry partners interested in investing in the next generation of Canada’s agricultural leaders. 

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alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com