OTTAWA — The Canadian Agricultural Youth Council has started its second round of recruitments and is looking for innovative, outspoken individuals.
The council meets regularly with Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, and other department officials to discuss the concerns of young food producers and advise on agriculture-related programs and policies.
The first cohort was formed in July 2020 with 25 members chosen from over 800 applications. The next cohort will recruit 25 new and returning members and run for an 18-month term starting this summer.
The council is an opportunity for youth leaders to share their perspectives, bring forward new ideas, learn about government policy, network professionally, and play a role in shaping the future of their industry.
The council has previously discussed important matters like sustainable agriculture, how to bring more youth into the sector, and the challenges around the urban-rural divide. The council’s proposals also helped develop the government’s new AgriCommunications program to improve producer-consumer relations in the industry.
Applicants must be Canadian residents aged 18-30 with experience and knowledge in food and farming through academic studies, volunteer work, upbringing, employment, or other life experiences. The deadline to apply is Mar. 22.
The application process includes a series of questions on the candidate’s agricultural experience, a short essay on a notable issue facing youth in the sector, and how they propose to address it.
Apply on Agriculture Canada website. Click on Canadian Agricultural Youth Council on home page.