Canadian Agricultural Youth Council

Young Canadians are dynamic, engaged and passionate about the future of the agriculture and agri-food sector, and giving them a voice at the table is an important commitment of the Government of Canada.

As a consultative body to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council (CAYC) is a group of young Canadians providing advice, enabling on-going dialogue on food-related challenges and opportunities, sharing information and best practices, and advising on the strengths and weaknesses of policies and programs affecting the agriculture and agri-food sectors.

On August 10, 2022, Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau announced the names of the 25 members of the second cohort of the CAYC chosen to sit at this table. They represent a diverse mix of individuals from subsectors across the agriculture and agri-food sector, with broad regional representation from across Canada.

The CAYC's current Youth Co-Chair, elected by council members, is Alanna Coneybeare.

If you have any questions or would like to connect with the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council, please send an e-mail to aafc.youthcouncil-conseildelajeunesse.aac@agr.gc.ca.

Meetings

CAYC members meet several times a year to discuss issues that matter to their peers, their community and their sector.

• Highlights: March 26, 2024 (via video conference)

  • The 21st meeting of the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council (CAYC) was held on March 26, 2024. To open the meeting, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) provided an update on recent activities under the Sector Engagement Tables. It was noted that some changes are underway within the context of the Sector Engagement Table model, such as encouraging more cross-table membership, more frequent updates between tables, and more frequent co-chair check-ins.
  • Next, Kalysha Hanrahan from Agriculture in the Classroom Canada provided an overview of the I Am Ag initiative under the ThinkAG program. The “I Am Ag” initiative is a platform through which members of the agricultural sector can respond to different questions about the sector, upload their picture, and receive an AI-generated video detailing how “They are Ag.” Youth Council members responded positively to the initiative, noting that the platform can serve as a tool to share the diversity of careers in agriculture beyond those that are directly related to on-farm activities.
  • Carla Kaeding from Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers (COYF) provided an overview of its nomination process, and proposed changes for the upcoming year. COYF is adjusting its nomination package to modernize the criteria and better reflect the realities of modern farming. A key element for Youth Council members was the percentage of revenue earned that was required to be through primary agriculture. Youth Council members noted that more and more young farmers are earning income from off-farm activities while still being involved in the agricultural sector. Members also highlighted that the criteria was potentially restrictive for candidates who assisted in the operation of farms that were owned by a family member or their parents. COYF were appreciative of the Youth Council’s comments and committed to following up with the Council once the review process has been completed.
  • The AAFC Youth Secretariat presented a preliminary report on the second cohort of the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council, outlining milestones and achievements. The Council noted key contributions towards the Sustainable Agriculture Strategy, the National School Food Policy consultation, and its presentation on the value of youth councils and engaging with youth at the World Food Forum as key highlights from the past 18 months.

• Highlights: February 1, 2024 (via video conference)

  • Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) provided an overview of the Canada Digital Adoption Program discussing how the program can benefit young agricultural business owners on-farm or in different areas of the value chain. ISED was joined by the Business Development Bank of Canada and Magnet to cover the 2 streams of the program (adoption loans and hiring youth). ISED noted that the CAYC would be a helpful resource to increase awareness of the program with their peers.
  • Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) outlined the On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF), and discussed areas for feedback as the Department seeks to relaunch the program in the next year. CAYC members noted that it will be important for the next iteration of OFCAF to factor in early adopters of beneficial management practices (BMPs) and better communicate the selection of BMP. The Environment and Climate change working group will discuss further potential recommendations and submit them later this winter to AAFC. Departmental officials will connect with a few members on the unique perspectives and cases they have raised.
  • CAYC members discussed the final report for the second cohort of the Council. Members noted the important work they completed over the last 18 months, such as their presentation at the World Food Forum on youth engagement mechanisms, and their contributions to AAFC priorities such as the Agricultural Labour Strategy and the Sustainable Agriculture Strategy. Council members will submit their written input for the report to the Youth Secretariat.
  • Members had a roundtable discussion about current status and progress of the Council's working groups, and provided updates on recent participation in the Sustainable Agriculture Strategy Advisory Committee last month, the Canadian Agricultural Human Resources Council's National Workforce Strategy working groups meeting in Toronto, and the Council's contributions to the Agri-Communications Symposium's agenda. Council members will have the opportunity to participate in various events over the next month: the Annual Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&R) conference, the Future of Food Conference, and the Sustainable Agriculture Symposium: Evolving Trends and Consumer Behaviours.

• Highlights: 2023

  • Highlights: November 29 and 30, 2023 (In-person and via video conference)

    • The meeting opened on November 29, 2023, with remarks from Keith Mussar, Vice President of Regulatory Affairs for the Canadian Association of Importers and Exporters and industry co-chair for the Agile Regulations Sector Engagement Table and the Sector Engagement Table's Leadership Table. Keith challenged the Council to advocate for increased youth presence in government engagement fora, as well as the importance for the Council to collaborate with their colleagues in the sector and with other government youth councils. Keith also noted that the Council should proactively share their written products and analyses with other Sector Engagement Tables to mainstream the incorporation of youth perspectives and to build broader consensus around these views.
    • The next session involved representatives from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's (AAFC) Indigenous Support and Awareness Office presenting an overview of the different groups of Indigenous Peoples in Canada, the role that food and agriculture plays in these communities, and the ways that agriculture and the sector can contribute to Canada's reconciliation journey. Members noted that several of the Council's priorities related to food security and climate change are linked with reconciliation, and hoped that Council work will continue to be viewed through a reconciliation lens.
    • Following the session, Deputy Minister Stefanie Beck provided a keynote address to Council members and led a roundtable discussion with members. Deputy Minister Beck encouraged the Council to continue exploring new areas to advance the sector, such as learning from other countries about shared issues like climate resiliency and incorporating innovative solutions; tackling food loss and waste; and scaling up new on-farm technology such as precision agriculture tools. The Deputy Minister also highlighted that climate change will ultimately change the landscape of Canada's agriculture and agri-food sector and that global knowledge transfer can help address the resulting knowledge gap from this changing context. Deputy Minister Beck noted that the Council can work on tools and resources to equip farmers and manage these challenges.
    • In the afternoon, Council members were joined by colleagues from the Environment and Climate Change Canada Youth Council (ECCC) and the Natural Resources Canada's Youth Council, as well as youth members of stakeholder organizations from the agricultural sector in order to continue building relationships across youth organizations and increase collaboration on cross-cutting priorities for all youth.
    • Council members and guests first heard from Jen Collette, Director General of Horizontal Policy, Engagement and Coordination Directorate within the Climate Change Branch at ECCC. ECCC provided an overview of the Government of Canada's climate policies related to climate mitigation emissions, and provided a brief overview of the implications for the agricultural sector (noting that AAFC are the Government of Canada leads on agricultural climate policy). Council members noted an interest in participating in ECCC's upcoming consultation for the 2035 emissions reduction target plan and the development of the associated emissions reduction targets plan for 2035, which will be released in 2029. ECCC noted the interest of the Council for continued engagement on this topic.
    • The next item for the Council members and guests was an overview of AAFC's Business Risk Management suite of programs, presented by AAFC. AAFC officials noted that the risks addressed by the programs may be changing as the sector faces increasingly common climate events that impact food production. Council members and guests were able to split off into breakout groups to discuss the changing landscape of agriculture and the potential future demands on Business Risk Management programs. Members later shared this input with AAFC officials, noting that they would like to be involved in any future consultations on this subject.
    • After external guests had departed from the meeting, Council members ended the first day of the meeting by hearing from Dorothy Long, Managing Director with Canadian Food Focus. Dorothy provided an overview of activities underway at Canadian Food Focus related to communications with consumers and food decision makers. Dorothy also presented a consumer engagement plan developed by the Consumer Demand and Market Trends Sector Engagement Table, which was being brought to the Council for its perspective on the behaviors of young consumers. Council members noted the important contributions of Council alumni on the working group that developed the engagement plan, and expressed a desire for further collaboration between the working group and the Council's Agricultural Careers and Education Working Group to explore linkages between the two around strategies for communicating about agricultural practices with consumers and individuals who are not familiar with the sector.
    • To open the second day of the meeting on November 30, 2023, Council members had the opportunity to discuss upcoming priorities within their working groups. Members noted that initiatives would need to be prioritized and organized into what could be realistically finalized ahead of the end of this cohort's mandate, and what initiatives may need to carry over into Cohort 3. Members also noted the need for Cohort 3 to develop its own path and priorities and not feel beholden to priorities of previous cohorts.
    • Following the strategic planning within working groups, Council members met with the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, where they summarized the activities of the second cohort of the Youth Council to date, such as hosting a side-event at the World Food Forum and leading a Youth panel at the Global Forum for Rural Advisory Services.
    • The Minister stressed the importance of the Council and its ability to bring the youth voice to the decision-making table. He highlighted that in his career, he always received great ideas from young farmers and students. He also asked the Council members to continue to give advice on important initiatives for the future of the sector.
    • After the Minister departed, Council members heard from Phyllis MacCallum, Senior Program Manager with the Canadian Agricultural Human Resources Council (CAHRC), to discuss CAHRC's National Workforce Strategic Plan. Council members provided CAHRC with input around engaging with youth and new Canadians around careers in agriculture, and on how to ensure that new entrants recognize that there are opportunities within agriculture across the value chain, and not just in primary agriculture.
    • To close the meeting, Council co-chairs outlined follow up commitments raised at the meeting, and noted that the next meeting would take place virtually in late winter or early spring 2024, and would likely be the last meeting of this cohort. AAFC committed to continuing to explore opportunities for Council members meet with government officials and stakeholders within the sector.

  • Highlights: September 20, 2023 (via video conference)

    • The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, met with the Council for the first time, providing opening remarks and speaking to the Government of Canada’s commitment to include youth perspectives in federal policies and programs. Alanna Coneybeare, youth co-chair of the CAYC, shared an overview of the Council’s priorities and recent activities with the Minister, highlighting a bright future of collaboration with the department.
    • The Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute (CAPI), in collaboration with the Canadian Centre for Food Integrity (CCFI), presented their findings on consumer trends and industry implications on the food sector, particularly as they relate to sustainable agriculture. This presentation identified four major Canadian consumer trends: environmental sustainability, health, affordability, and social sustainability. This research was funded by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada under the AgriCommunication Initiative - Stream 2, which is focused on increasing the sector’s understanding of consumer preferences and expectations.
      • Members discussed the trends, sharing the impact they have on their respective sectors, which trends should be explored further, and what actions industry could take to address consumer concerns identified in the findings.
      • Members noted that the context behind rising food prices should be better explained to consumers, sustainability-related information should be more accessible on food products, and that direct communication between producers and consumers is important.
    • The B.C. Ministry of Agriculture and Food then presented on the support that they provide to new entrants to agriculture, providing information on their New Entrant Strategy and the B.C. Land Matching Program. Young Agrarians supported the presentation and discussion as the program administrator for the B.C. Land Matching Program.
      • Members inquired about the process that led to the development of the provincial strategy and the results in terms of increasing the farming population in B.C. Members were also interested in what this program could do if managed on a national level.
    • Youth Council working groups leads shared updates on their recent activities and direction for the remainder of Cohort 2, which include collaboration with other youth councils and youth organizations, documenting work to prepare for the transition to Cohort 3, and developing a virtual side event on youth engagement at this year’s World Food Forum in October.

  • Highlights: June 22, 2023 (via video conference)

    • Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) presented a number of options to continue the Food Policy for Canada, following the sunsetting of current program funding in March 2024, to gain the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council’s (CAYC) perspectives on opportunities for improving overall coordination and coherence, and addressing emerging food systems challenges.
      • Members participated in breakout sessions, providing input on topics such as: strengthening local food systems; reducing food waste; supporting the sector to seize market opportunities; and supporting Indigenous food system self-determination.
    • AAFC delivered a presentation on renewing the Federal-Provincial-Territorial (FPT) Emergency Management Framework for Agriculture and consulted members on the next steps for an action plan to renew this Framework.
      • Members provided input under the pillars of emergency management: prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery. In the breakout sessions, members highlighted the need to prioritize: prevention among all levels of the value chain; the movement of food in emergency situations; worker safety; supports for smaller producers and processors; and the need for effective communications during emergency events.
    • CAYC working group leads provided updates on their ongoing initiatives and strategic direction for the remainder of Cohort 2, including the finalization of written recommendations to the Sustainable Agriculture Strategy, and the development of programming for a virtual side event at this year’s World Food Forum in October.
    • AAFC co-chair Jasmine Labelle informed the CAYC that she will be stepping down from her role as government co-chair. Austin Mowat will serve as AAFC co-chair for the remainder of Cohort 2.

  • Highlights: April 5, 2023 (via video conference)

    • The Council discussed the new Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. Members learned about the key changes made to the Partnership, the renewal of federal programming, and changes to cost-shared and Business Risk Management programming. Members asked questions on the development, and eligibility requirements for specific programs, as well as how the performance of funding recipients will be measured, and how results will be monitored.
    • AAFC delivered a presentation on two important tools used in food production: pesticides; and plant breeding innovation with a focus on gene-edited seeds. The Council discussed how government and industry can better engage with the public, and specifically youth, on these tools. Members shared their ideas, which included: using common foods as examples to showcase the benefits of tools used in Canadian food production; sharing information to the public on how Canadian's health is considered in decisions on food production; being transparent on gene-edited seed regulations and reporting; and educating the public and youth in schools, and connecting them with farmers and at the farm level.
    • Members participated in a CAYC-led roundtable discussion, and the Secretariat shared highlights of the member experience survey.

  • Highlights: February 16 and 17, 2023 (In-person and via video conference)

    On February 16, 2023, the Council met with leaders of agricultural youth organizations, stakeholders and officials from Agriculture and Agri-food Canada (AAFC) to continue exploring topics affecting young people in food and farming.

    • The meeting opened with members reflecting on the activities of the Youth Council since the first meeting of Cohort 2 in August 2022. Members commented that they were very keen to continue engaging on the Sustainable Agriculture Strategy and to promote the importance of an inclusive and accessible National School Food Policy. Members also recognized the importance of having youth participate and speak at industry conferences as a means to raise awareness about the Youth Council and promote youth leadership in the sector.
    • Following this session, Frédérick Clerson, former lecturer of agricultural policy and economics at Laval University, presented a summary of how Quebec supports young and new producers by helping them overcome the three biggest challenges they face: access to land, capital and expertise. Youth Council members from Quebec shared their experience accessing Quebec's targeted programs, and highlighted the need for similar supports to be expanded across Canada.
    • The next session included a speaker panel which featured some of North America's most influential pioneers of the digital agriculture revolution: Isha Datar of New Harvest cellular agriculture; Dan Lussier of the Canadian Agri-Food Data Initiative at the Enterprise Machine Intelligence & Learning Initiative; and Blake Weiseth, of GFM Discovery Farm and Saskatchewan Polytechnic. Panelists shared career insights and highlighted that the sector needed more young Canadians with skills in bioprocessing and data science.
    • The afternoon began with a panel discussion with youth leaders including, Sara Dent of Young Agrarians, Julie Bissonnette of Canadian Young Farmers Forum, and Neleah Lavoie of 4-H Canada. Panelists agreed that young people in the sector were passionate about their work, but that they faced many challenges to success, including lack of agricultural education in primary schools and lack of access to land, capital, and expertise; and agreement on the need for a coordinated strategy to support new urban and rural entrants to Canada's food and farming sector.
    • To end the day, Youth Council members, speakers from the youth panel, and additional sector and provincial youth delegates, participated in a workshop on the Sustainable Agriculture Strategy (SAS). Participants highlighted that farms were benefiting from thoughtful resource planning such as Nutrient Management Plans and Environmental Farm Plans which incorporated numerous sustainable practices to support water quality, soil health, and biodiversity, which mitigated the impacts of climate change while increasing farm profitability. They noted that it is crucial for farmers to see the demonstrated benefits of any new production practice and highlighted the importance of regional business-to-business and intergenerational knowledge transfer. They also noted that small- to medium-sized operations are extremely innovative, and recommended that the SAS allow young farmers to progress incrementally and quickly in order to achieve 2030 sustainability goals.

    On Friday February 17, 2023, Youth Council members met with Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau, where they summarized the activities of the second cohort of the Youth Council to date, shared advice on various policies at the Department of Agriculture and Agri-food Canada, and discussed the importance of building public trust in the Canada's agriculture and agri-food sectors.

    • During their discussion, members highlighted their recommendations for the National School Food Policy, Agricultural Labour Strategy, and development of an emergency management plan for the sector, as well as their continued interest in providing advice on the Sustainable Agriculture Strategy. They also shared their positive experiences representing the Youth Council at various industry events.
    • The Minister expressed how impressed she was by the Council's ideas, efforts and outreach. Together, they discussed ideas on ways to communicate with Canadians about the complex tools and technologies used by farmers to continue building public trust in Canada's agricultural sector. They also discussed the influence of food labels on consumer preferences and the importance of helping scientists communicate about the innovations that are modernizing the agricultural sector.

• Highlights: 2022

  Highlights: December 13, 2022 (via video conference)

  • The Council discussed AAFC's work to develop a national emergency preparedness and response plan for crises affecting Canada's entire food system. Members provided feedback and shared considerations on this issue that supports "A Food Policy for Canada" and contributed to food security. Feeback included:
    • the need for fluid and diverse strategies for effectively communicating with the sector during an emergency
    • including the role of food banks in the plan
    • increasing the number of food processing and input manufacturing plants in Canada
    • considering the welfare of livestock during emergencies
    • mitigating and managing disruptions to supply chains, including transportation routes
    • ensuring that farmers have access to mental health resources during crises
  • Members shared Working Group Updates:
    • The Climate Change and Environment Working Group discussed their initial recommendations for the Sustainable Agricultural Strategy (SAS). These recommendations included: what they want to see achieved through the strategy, ways to overcome barriers for producers, and how progress can be effectively measured.
    • The Food Security Working Group discussed their work to draft their recommendations for the consultation on Canada's National School Food Policy.
    • The Careers and Ag Education working groups will continue to develop resources on career pathways in agriculture and develop a communications strategy for the Council.
  • Members also shared highlights from various fall activities. Members commented on the importance of youth representation and active participation at sector and industry events to showcase the important contribution youth bring to the agricultural sector.

  Highlights: November 1, 2022 (via video conference)

  • The team working to develop AAFC's Agricultural Labour Strategy (AgLS) returned to the Youth Council to provide an update on the Strategy and to share what they have heard throughout their consultations to date.
  • Following this update, the CAYC's Agricultural Careers and Agricultural Education Working Groups presented their recommendations to AAFC for consideration in the development of the Agricultural Labour Strategy. They highlighted the need to:
    • Increase and fund agricultural curriculum in primary and secondary schools;
    • Bring greater transparency to career pathways in agriculture and agri-food;
    • Increase grants to improve wages for farm labourers;
    • Invest in living and working conditions to improve the quality of life for farm labourers;
    • Provide health benefits to Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs) and support them in seeking permanent residence status in Canada;
    • Provide targeted support to new and young farmers who are Black, Indigenous and people of colour (BIPOC); 
    • Build capacity and expand food and farming mentorship programs across Canada;
    • Fund knowledge transfer, extension services , and succession planning;
    • Support young farmers in developing successful business plans.
  • The CAYC then met with AAFC's Food Policy Division, which provided an overview of early stakeholder views on the National school food policy.
  • Members then met in breakout groups to share ideas and advice on potential principles and objectives of the policy, with a focus on strengthening the connections between school food programming and Canada's food systems. Members agreed that school food programs should be affordable (free), universal, health promoting, culturally appropriate and improve food literacy. In their discussions, members also emphasized that school food programs should:
    • Be informed by science-based nutrition and shield students from marketing by food brands;
    • Seek opportunities for local food suppliers so that economic benefits are felt in the community;
    • Build relationships with local farmers to create opportunities for teaching how our food is produced;
    • Include elements of environmental and social education, such as how to reduce food waste;
    • Consider pilot programs that are targeted at the most vulnerable communities and scale these up as capacity increases.
  • The meeting concluded with a discussion of topics for future Youth Council meetings.

  Highlights: October 5, 2022 (via video conference)

  • 5 candidates for the role of elected Youth Co-chair for the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council gave brief presentations and answered questions about their suitability for the role of co-chair. Members then voted anonymously, electing Alana Coneybeare as the new CAYC Co-Chair for the second cohort.
  • The team from AAFC's AgriCommunications Initiative (ACI) returned to the CAYC to provide an update on the implementation of the Initiative, including AAFC's forthcoming marketing campaign.
  • Youth Council members were then organized into their thematic working groups where they discussed their key priority areas for the second cohort, which will include: Food Security, Careers in Agriculture, Agricultural Education and Climate Change.

  Highlights: August 24 and 25, 2022 (In-person and via video conference)

  • The Canadian Agricultural Youth Council met for the first time in-person, in Montreal, Quebec.
  • The 2-day, hybrid meeting brought together members from the second cohort along with alumni from the first cohort, in-person and virtually, to review working group initiatives, to discuss the council's future strategic direction, and to share ideas for how members can make the most of their time on the Council.
  • Adriana Zeleney, Director of the Industry Engagement Division, gave an overview of the department and explained the Youth Council's important role in shaping policies and programs at AAFC.
  • Hubertus Gay of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Secretariat presented an overview on how OECD member countries collaborate and prepare for the upcoming OECD Agricultural Ministerial meeting in November, 2022. The Minister of Agriculture and Agri-food, Marie Claude Bibeau, will Co-Chair the Ministerial, where global leaders will come together to discuss key priorities such as ensuring global food security and nutrition, improving livelihoods and the health of all people, addressing climate change challenges and strengthening sustainability, supporting skills development, and seizing opportunities for inclusive agriculture.
  • Claire Mullen, Director of AAFC's Climate Policy and Partnerships Division, presented an overview of the Department's forthcoming consultation on the Green Agriculture Plan.
  • Minister Bibeau led a discussion with members on the importance of youth engagement in the sector and discussed her mandate letter priorities including the development of an Agricultural Labour Strategy, Green Agriculture Plan, and a National School Food Program.
  • Youth Council members also had a chance to visit La Centrale Agricole in Quebec, an urban agriculture and agri-food cooperative and innovation incubator.

  Highlights: June 28, 2022 (via video conference)

  • During the final meeting of Cohort 1, Minister Bibeau led a conversation with members on their achievements and key takeaways as the first ever Canadian Agricultural Youth Council.
  • Minister Bibeau expressed her gratitude for the Council's work, thanking members for their impressive impact and all that they have accomplished in their 2-year term.
  • Working group leads discussed the progress made, lessons learned, and gave direction to Cohort 2.
  • Members reflected on their decision to return or depart from the Council and discussed how they benefited from their time on the Council.
  • Emily Silk, Director of the Labour and Market Efficiency Policy Division at AAFC, gave an overview of the Agricultural Labour Strategy that is currently in development and sought member perspectives to inform the strategy.

  Highlights: May 11, 2022 (via video conference)

  • Farm Credit Canada representatives provided an overview of the products and services that they offer to young borrowers, highlighting some key changes coming to their Next Generation suite of products.
  • Michael Hoffort, President and Chief Executive Officer of Farm Credit Canada, shared inspiring career and leadership philosophies with Council members.
  • AAFC provided an update on Stream 1 of the AgriCommunication Initiative, which is currently underway, and sought recommendations from the Council on Stream 2, which focuses on consumer expectations and behaviours, and collaboration with the sector to address sustainability.
  • AAFC Co-Chair Denis Bégin discussed deadlines for submitting feedback to the Next Policy Framework and provided an update on the recruitment of the second cohort of members.

  Highlights: March 29, 2022 (via video conference)

  • The Youth Council co-chairs reflected on the Russian invasion of Ukraine and its impacts on global food systems, and the need for Canada to support refugees.
  • AAFC consulted CAYC members on the outcomes of AAFC's Next Policy Framework (NPF). Members made numerous recommendations for the NPF, including but not limited to, the need to: make programs more accessible; strengthen relations with Indigenous Peoples; make investments in rural infrastructure; support the adoption of on-farm technologies and sustainable practices; design BRM programs suited to diversified producers; continue building public trust and improving agricultural literacy; support a more diverse sector; learn from sector leaders in other countries; communicate more effectively about funding programs; report on results of funding applications; set key performance indicators to measure outcomes in priority areas; and ensure flexibility and adaptability of programs to stay relevant over the course of the Framework.
  • Co-Chair Jerry Bos invited members to collaborate on a letter summarizing recommendations for AAFC and provincial governments regarding the importance of supporting agricultural education in schools.
  • Co-chair Denis Bégin updated members on the status of the recruitment of the second cohort of the Council.

  Highlights: January 25, 2022 (via video conference)

  • Tom Rosser, Assistant Deputy Minister at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, discussed Minister Bibeau's Mandate Letter and the Guelph Statement with Council members.
  • The Council provided feedback on key priorities including labour strategies and the National School Food Program.
  • AAFC presented the AgriCommunication Initiative marketing approach to the Council for their feedback and suggestions.
  • The Department provided a brief update on the development of the Next Policy Framework. The Council highlighted additional priority and opportunity areas.

• Highlights: 2021

  Highlights: December 7 and 8, 2021 (via video conference)

  • The December meeting of the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council was held in two separate sessions to accommodate members' schedules. It was the first official activity of the Council post-election.
  • Youth Council members shared recent personal and professional achievements during a member roundtable.
  • A representative from each of the three working groups presented a progress update on their initiatives.
  • The AAFC Youth Secretariat shared how they are supporting a positive Youth Council experience by, for example, developing a member website, organizing development opportunities, and consulting on the transition to the next cohort in July 2022.
  • AAFC presented the new Canadian AgriCommunication Initiative. Members gave their support for the initiative, commenting on the importance of allowing the industry to promote its many existing sustainable practices.

  Highlights: August 12, 2021 (via video conference)

  • The Canadian Agricultural Youth Council (CAYC) met on August 12^th to celebrate its one-year anniversary on the United Nation's International Youth Day. Youth delegates from various other agricultural organizations joined the meeting to celebrate with the CAYC.
  • The Assistant Deputy Minister of AAFC's Markets and Industry Services Branch praised the CAYC on its many impressive achievements over the past year and remarked on how they had helped the Department better understand the needs of current and future generations of food and farming professionals.
  • Fawn Jackson, Director of Policy and International Affairs with the Canadian Cattlemen's Association, provided a keynote address where she spoke about her personal and professional journey in agriculture, shared lessons learned, and discussed the importance of supporting youth leadership.
  • CAYC members and youth delegates participated in a consultation on AAFC's Next Policy Framework (NPF). Participants made numerous recommendations for the NPF, including but not limited to the need to:
    • attract and support new and young farmers;
    • increase funding for land acquisition, research and development, and grassroots organizations;
    • make investments in rural infrastructure;
    • leverage agriculture as a tool to fight climate change;
    • support the adoption of on-farm technologies and sustainable practices;
    • continue building public trust in the sector;
    • address labour shortages;
    • support a more diverse sector;
    • expand availability of agricultural education in schools; support
    • support more cross-industry collaboration;
    • design BRM programs suited to diversified producers;
    • collect consistent and informative data for improved decision making;
    • and communicate more effectively about funding programs.

  Highlights: July 20, 2021 (via video conference)

  • Minister Bibeau led a discussion on the impact of climate change on agriculture, acknowledging the severe drought impacting producers in the Prairies and the work being done to respond to the evolving situation.
  • CAYC members were eager to speak about the impact of climate change on young farmers, and shared feedback on AAFC's Agricultural Climate Solutions and Agricultural Clean Technology Program. They highlighted the importance of supporting producers in their adoption of more environmentally sustainable practices.
  • CAYC members noted that agriculture can be used as a tool to fight climate change and that this opportunity may draw more youth into the sector. CAYC members identified rural digital connectivity and farmer mental health as barriers to the adoption of sustainable farming practices.

  Highlights: June 14, 2021 (via video conference)

  • The Council observed a moment of silence to honour the memory of the Indigenous lives lost and those permanently changed as a result of Canada's residential school system.
  • AAFC's Carla St. Croix led an introductory consultation on the Next Policy Framework (NPF), and members provided their related visions and priorities. These included:
    • improving access to data to support informed and responsible on-farm decisions
    • ensuring that policies and programming are inclusive of underrepresented groups
    • facilitating knowledge transfer to young and new entrants
    • offering financial support for farmers to access land and to adopt sustainable practices and technologies
  • CAYC co-chair Jerry Bos presented a plan to consult and collaborate with members on a written submission to the UN Food Systems Summit.
  • Ashley St. Hilaire of the Youth Council Secretariat, shared a summary of the results from a recent CAYC member experience survey. The results highlighted that members are enjoying their experience on the Council and that they would benefit from additional guidance on best practices for youth councils, and more opportunities for networking.

  Highlights: March 8, 2021 (via video conference)

  • Minister Bibeau participated with Council members in the #ChooseToChallenge campaign in celebration of Canada's International Women's Day, by raising their hands to show that they choose to challenge and call out gender bias and inequality.
  • Council members provided an update to the Minister on the Council's work to date, including outcomes of their second strategic planning session, the launch of their social media channels (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram), and interactions with a number of external agriculture stakeholders to promote the work of the Council and to share a youth perspective on various initiatives of interest.
  • Farm Credit Canada led an engaging discussion on services for youth and the next generation of agriculture, focusing on topics such as succession planning, sustainable agriculture, and talent acquisition in agriculture. Members provided feedback and ideas to FCC for future programming/services.
  • CFIA provided an overview of the Agency's role and mandate, and solicited input for its "Framing competitiveness and innovation for success" public consultation.
  • The Council prepared for its third strategic planning session at the end of March 2021.

• Highlights: 2020

  Highlights: November 6, 2020 (via video conference)

  • At the invitation of Minister Bibeau, Murad Al-Katib, member of the Industry Strategy Council and chair of the Agri-Food Economic Strategy Table (AFEST) provided an overview of the Council's work to date and shared insights on his expectations for the new AFEST.
  • The Department asked for suggestions on ways to increase awareness and appreciation of the agriculture and food sector and its contribution to rural vitality. Members shared their ideas on how activities under the Food Policy for Canada could lead to greater pride and trust. Members agreed to provide further input following the meeting.
  • Jerry Bos, youth co-chair of the CAYC, outlined avenues to establish a strategic work plan for the Council. A third meeting of the Council is expected in the new year.

  Highlights: September 3, 2020 (via video conference)

  • Council members and the Minister had a rich discussion, with awareness of the agriculture and agri-food sector across Canada being the overarching theme.
  • Discussion continued on issues ranging from public trust, building consumer confidence, to breaking down the urban-rural divide. Council members noted the importance of knowledge transfer from research to producers/consumers, as well as educating and encouraging interest among Canada's young people in agriculture-related careers.
  • Other topics included: Adjusting to and mitigating climate change; Balancing economic viability with sustainability, stewardship and social responsibility; Focusing on Canada's strengths (for example, robust regulations, research); and Capturing opportunities (such as developing new markets, mentorship for new farmers).
  • News Release: Inaugural meeting of the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council – helping shape the future of agriculture and food

Members of the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council

Display AllCollapse All

Jacob Aarts

British Columbia

I am a committed, third-generation dairy farmer with a distinctive perspective. After working as a helicopter pilot in the Northwest Territories, and overseas in agriculture, I chose to return to my passion – my family's dairy and poultry farms. I have varied experience farming in British Columbia's arid inland region and wet coastal regions and believe my diverse, hands-on experiences in both the private sector and agriculture will be beneficial in addressing challenges and ensuring a healthy agriculture industry for future generations.

Menilek Beyene

Ontario

I am an environmental biology graduate student researching plant ecology, forest restoration, and thinking about ways to improve access to food, availability of resources, and the sustainable enjoyment of nature. One of my areas of interest focuses on connecting the movements of environmental conservation, agricultural reform, and food sovereignty by communicating their shared issues through multimedia. With the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council, I will bring my perspectives to bear to address these challenges in the Canadian food system. In my spare time I volunteer on small scale farms, tend to my backyard garden, and enjoy local cuisines.

Emily Bland

Newfoundland and Labrador

I am a social entrepreneur with an agricultural heart. I am a third-generation farmer from rural NL and am the Seed-EO of SucSeed; a hydroponic social-enterprise that is on a mission to help the world grow. SucSeed has gardens in +1,000 schools educating +25,000 students annually, +2,000 homes and +200 community groups. I was awarded Newfoundland and Labrador Organization of Women Entrepreneurs' Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award and SucSeed was named the top Social Enterprise in Atlantic Canada. I was a founding board member of the Centre for Social Enterprise at Memorial University of Newfoundland, I sit on the board of the Memorial Centre for Entrepreneurship and the Empowering Indigenous Women's Organization. I am a Director of Smiling Land Farm where I am helping lead the development of a 400-acre organic farm.

Vicki Brisson

Ontario

As a francophone female scientist, I am passionate about merging the bridge between research and industry while also using the skills acquired through my various life experiences to solve complex problems. I am the founder of the Eastern Ontario Women in Agriculture Network, and a proponent of agricultural education and consumer awareness.

B. Pratyusha Chennupati

Alberta

Having a unique skillset of engineering, sciences, and regulatory affairs background, I see opportunity in every challenge posed in agriculture. Working in a start-up and established ag-biotech company helped me think not just about the farm level practices but also about having a strategy for a short- and long-term vision for markets beyond the farm.

Alanna Coneybeare (co-chair)

Ontario

I have been very fortunate to have a wonderful breadth of experiences resulting from studying and working in both urban and rural Ontario. I have been farming full time on my family's dairy, poultry and cash crop farm for the last 6 years. Since coming home from university, I have become a mental health advocate and am constantly exploring how solutions to environmental, social and other issues can be achieved through changes in food systems.

Andrea De Roo

Saskatchewan

I am a mixed grain and cattle farmer and an agronomist with work experience in both the public and private sectors of the agriculture industry. I believe my diverse experiences across the Prairies brings a unique perspective to challenges facing our generation in agriculture.

Cyndelle Gagnon

Quebec

As a bachelor's student in agronomy at Laval University, I am committed to being the voice of young agricultural professionals, and to proudly represent the values of my Gaspé region. My academic career has been indelibly marked by involvement in student associations, which has forged my character and ability to conduct consultations, determine and successfully carry out relevant mandates and represent members. My favourite areas of interest include horticulture, particularly ornamental horticulture, as well as entomology, sustainable development and agricultural policies.

I believe that the challenge lies in realizing all the aspirations that young people have for the future of agriculture in Canada, and it is important for me to put my shoulder to the wheel to achieve this!

Chantele Gouliquer

Manitoba

I am an indigenous female who brings experience in a multitude of areas of animal science, production and research in swine, poultry and dairy. Starting out in the industry can be difficult with its own set of challenges which I can speak for from a perspective of someone who has experienced these challenges. I am also a proponent of agricultural education and consumer trust, with experience in the animal nutrition, meat production and processing value chain.

Paul Hrycyk

Ontario

I work with farmers and corporate partners to transition agricultural systems and supply chains to meet regenerative agriculture principles. I have led the development of new projects on 3 continents, working with over 350 producers and cooperatives in diversified crops and commodities. With an M.Sc. in Soil Science, I apply my science background to field operations and I've designed and implemented monitoring and evaluation protocols for PUR Projet's global regenerative agriculture project portfolio. I am passionate about building strong working relationships with a diversity of stakeholders, including producers, investors, and policy makers.

Elizabeth Jeffs

British Columbia

Growing up on my family's farm, I have had a lifelong passion for agriculture. I am a recent graduate from the faculty of Land and Food Systems at the University of British Columbia, where I studied Applied Plant and Soil Science. I currently work as an IPM consultant, and continue to help on my family's farm. I believe that my wide variety of experiences will offer a unique perspective as part of the CAYC.

Sameeha Jhetam

Saskatchewan

I have an M.Sc. in Animal Science and am currently pursuing my PhD in the Poultry Management and Welfare lab at the University of Saskatchewan. My research is assessing hatchery and transport related wellbeing of leghorn chicks. My career has focused on poultry research and studying various management practices to improve the welfare of turkeys and layer chicks. I have a passion for teaching, agriculture education, and building public trust in the industry. I am also a member of AAFC Animal Protein Table, a sector engagement table between animal protein sector representatives and the government.

Samuel Lanctôt

Quebec

As a business owner, I went through the start-up process and was confronted with various issues that the next generation of farmers can face.

Thomas-Louis Lavallée

Quebec

After growing up in Quebec's agricultural community, agriculture has always been a prominent part of my life. Beyond the family legacy, it has become a passion and a career mainly in the areas of business management, agroeconomics, and crop and animal production. My background can be summarized as follows; I had technical training in agricultural business management and technologies, earned a bachelor's degree in agroeconomics, and am currently studying for my master's degree in business administration – Entrepreneurship and SME Management. I am currently an agricultural account manager at National Bank, owner of a horticultural centre and very involved in the Canadian agricultural community.

Erin McCardle

Prince Edward Island

I am a recent graduate from the University of Guelph with a Bachelor of Agriculture Science. Currently my work involves addressing labour and human resource needs of island farmers and working to educate the public on the agri-food sector. My involvement in my families mixed berry farm continues annually over the summer months.

Kallum McDonald

Alberta

I come from a fifth-generation buffalo and grain farm (primarily canola and wheat) in Northern Alberta. I am finishing my graduate studies program at the University of Alberta in Plant Biology. My academic and private sector research experience consists of plant genetic engineering, canola breeding, and corn breeding funded by an NSERC research award. I am proud to volunteer for my local MLA, the City of Edmonton noxious weed control program, and some of my labour union committees. I look forward to bringing a climate change-oriented and LGBT+ point of view to the council.

William McManiman

Quebec

Born on a family dairy farm in Saint-Ambroise-de-Kildare, I am now a proud dairy farmer and agrologist. Curious by nature, this led me to work in agriculture in Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia. Holder of a bachelor's degree in agronomy with a specialization in animal sciences, a certificate in consumer sciences and a certificate in business administration, I hope to contribute an interesting and complementary perspective while learning more about the realities elsewhere in Canada.

Josiah Mullet Koop

Ontario

As a sixth-generation Ontario farmer and Poultry Science Master's student at the University of Guelph, I have significant experience in agriculture from both an academic and practical standpoint. I hope to use my perspective to help position the Canadian agriculture industry for success for generations to come!

Boma N-Chris

Manitoba

As an immigrant and the first agriculturalist in my generation, I have experienced unique wins, losses and expectations in different areas of agriculture and I bring that perspective and experience to the CAYC. I have a passion for eliminating food insecurity in the world and providing real nutritious foods for the growing population. As a recent agronomy graduate, and currently in the sales and marketing agricultural technology sector, I am committed to learning about the innovative agriculture technology solutions to improve soil health and end food insecurity.

Lauren Peters Withrow

Nova Scotia

I have both worked and volunteered within the agricultural industry for over a decade. Although I did not grow up on a farm, I found a love and passion for this industry at a young age. I've been involved in the industry in many ways, from working on an egg farm, being a busy 4-H member, and then going on to pursue an education in the field of agriculture. I graduated from Dalhousie University's Faculty of Agriculture's one-of-a-kind International Food Business dual-degree program, and I now work for the Faculty. As the Community Education Manager, I lead the efforts to raise the profile of agriculture in schools and communities in the region. I also sit on the Nova Scotia Youth Council for Agriculture as the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council Representative.

Colby Robertson

Alberta

I am a professional in the potato sector, with experience across government research, private industry, and academic pursuits. My career has evolved over time, and I currently work to scale up production of unique types of potatoes across North America. My career evolution has fostered my interest in helping to shape the future of Canadian agriculture as it relates to youth employment and professional growth.

Hannah Kaya Sideris Hersh

Quebec

I am a new farm worker with experience at different nodes in the food system, including a solidarity cooperative cafe, community gardens, university food systems policy, and now organic small-scale farming. As co-chair of the National Farmers Union (NFU) Farm Worker Working Group, I am intimately connected to the grievances, strategies, and hopes of farm workers. I bring my perspective as someone entering farming without formal agricultural education or a family history of growing. I am involved with queer farmer networks, as well as environmental and social justice organizing. I live and work on unceded Algonquin territory.

David Simmonds

New Brunswick

The world of agriculture is transforming. Remote sensing, machine learning, cloud computing and statistical modeling are driving critical insights for decision making. My passion is to help bring these technologies together. I'm born and raised in New Brunswick,with a formal education in Forestry from UNB. I've worked in precision agriculture for over six years. An exciting acquisition by McCain Foods landed me on McCain's Earth Observation team. As part of a newly formed business unit, I manage projects for a great team of like-minded innovators. Together we develop new insights to empower decision makers in agriculture.

Sara Kate Smith

British Columbia

I hope to bring insights into the experiences young people go through when trying to find their place in the industry. My time in 4-H and post-grad experiences have shown me the value of mentorship. I believe that mentorship is one of those key solutions to supporting new entrants in agriculture. I am proud to represent CAYC on AAFC's Skills Development Sector Engagement Table, and I look forward to continuing to work on youth-led solutions for engagement and industry succession preparation.