Ottawa, Ont. (Rural Roots Canada) – The federal government is looking for its next group of young Canadians to help shape the future of the country’s agriculture and agri-food sector.
Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Heath MacDonald announced Monday that applications are now open for the fourth cohort of the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council.
The five-week intake period invites Canadians between the ages of 18 and 30 who are involved in agriculture, agri-food, or the broader food systems to apply for the volunteer advisory body.
The council was created in 2020 to provide the government with input from young people working and studying in the sector, including those involved in farming, food production, sustainability, innovation and food security initiatives.
In a release, MacDonald said young people play a key role in building a stronger and more sustainable agriculture industry.
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“Youth are critical to developing the future of Canada’s agriculture and agri-food sector,” MacDonald said. “Together, we can empower the next generation to shape a more resilient, innovative, and sustainable agriculture and agri-food sector.”
The department said previous council cohorts have provided advice on issues ranging from attracting young workers to agriculture to adopting new technologies and responding to disruptions in global food trade.
William McManiman, co-chair of the current council, said the experience allows members from different regions and backgrounds to collaborate on issues facing the industry.
“The Canadian Agricultural Youth Council gave me a rare platform to exchange ideas with passionate young leaders from across Canada and beyond,” McManiman said. “Its diversity of voices from all regions of the country, including Indigenous voices, encapsulating producers, students, advisors, technicians and scientists, created an inspiring environment where complex challenges became powerful moments of collaboration.”
The first cohort launched with 25 members selected from more than 800 applicants. The federal government said the council is non-partisan and members serve on a volunteer basis.
The new cohort will begin a two-year term in the fall of 2026 and will include a mix of new and returning members, with a target of up to 25 participants.
Applications close July 1. You apply at the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council website.
