One thing is for certain: We can’t predict the future. Our industry has weathered many unexpected challenges over the past two years. While we may not be able to foresee what lies ahead, we can prepare for it. One solid investment we can make is in the next generation — whether it’s young producers hoping to take over their family operation, or attracting new talent from outside of agriculture to our industry. We need to harness and encourage the passion of these young people, so they are ready to lead when their turn comes.
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Over the past 12 years, we have seen many bright lights graduate from the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association’s Cattlemen’s Young Leader’s Mentorship (CYL) program. Many of these graduates are already making an impact in our industry and I am confident they will have the skills needed to lead our industry through future challenges and help us achieve more milestones and successes.
In 2017, I was approached about being a CYL mentor and I didn’t hesitate to get involved. I saw first-hand the value of the program, as my son was an early graduate of the program and benefited from the experience greatly. Through the program, young people ages 18-35 from across the country are paired with a mentor in a specific area they want to learn more about in the beef industry. It can be anything from policy to sustainable grazing practices to business risk management — the opportunities are endless. Not only does the program attract young beef farmers and ranchers, but it also turns out veterinarians, students, nutritionists, financial advisors and many more who are also interested in getting involved. Every role is an essential piece in the supply chain puzzle, so it’s important we have young leaders positioned for success in all areas.
Through CYL, I was paired with Carley Henniger from B.C., who was interested in growing her knowledge and skills in government advocacy and business development. She was not raised on a beef farm but was interested in learning how to become a young rancher and a strong advocate who could help influence future government policies. Carley and I discussed important topics such as pulling together a business plan for a ranch and government advocacy strategies. Through these discussions, I listened to her ideas, encouraged her to follow her aspirations, and when needed, I provided constructive feedback based on my experience.
Carley’s interest and passion for the beef industry inspire me. Our paths still cross at industry events, as she works with the B.C. Cattlemen’s Association and has recently become president of the Young Cattlemen’s Council (YCC). The council is another way for young people to get involved in the industry by serving on the youth subsidiary of the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA), where the job of the 10 delegates from across Canada is to bring a youth’s voice to the table. Both the YCC and the CYL program are important ways CCA invests in the next generation. To keep the two straight, I often say the CYL program focuses on mentorship and sharing our experience with mentees, while YCC is an opportunity for young people to provide us with input on policies that will be shared with policy-makers.
In December, I had the opportunity to work with Carley again at our CCA directors’ meeting in Ottawa. It was great to see her leadership in action and her professional growth since her time in the program. We shared another milestone opportunity while in Ottawa. Together, we interviewed Minister Bibeau and discussed the government’s agriculture priorities and how they would support our industry’s goals. Stay tuned for the video release of this interview!
Even with the uncertainties created by the pandemic, the CYL program has pivoted and offered valuable virtual development opportunities. Program participants have adapted well to virtual content, and it shows the strength of the industry’s next generation when we have young people who are willing to invest in their professional and personal development in such an uncertain and trying time.
The opportunities for these young leaders would not be possible without the generosity of the CYL donors. Funding for the CYL program is made available through its Foundation Partners: Cargill, MNP, McDonald’s Canada and New Holland. The program also receives support from Gold Sponsors such as Farm Credit Canada, Alltech, RBC Future Launch and Elanco, along with program sponsorship from the Alberta Cattle Feeders’ Association and Kim McConnell.
Equally important is the investment of our donors in YCC. The activities and development opportunities for YCC would be limited if it wasn’t for this important support from our Platinum sponsor, New Holland, and CCA’s provincial members. CCA, YCC and the CYL participants are extremely grateful for the support received from these generous partners.
Mark your calendars! CYL applications are open until March 31. If you are interested in getting more involved in the Canadian beef industry or know someone who would benefit from the CYL program, please encourage them to apply. To learn more about the program or download the application package, please visit the website at cattlemensyoungleaders.com and look under “Apply.” Don’t miss your chance to get involved!
