Canola Leaders Event Fosters Future Agricultural Champions

Canola Leaders Event Fosters Future Agricultural Champions

Alberta Canola Producers Commission - Submitted

In March 2025, Alberta Canola hosted its annual Canola Leaders event, bringing together 20 young farmers and emerging agricultural leaders from across the province. The program is designed to cultivate strong leadership skills that benefit both individual farms and the broader agricultural community.

The two-day event focused on four key leadership competencies:

1. Strategic thinking skills

2. Governance for healthy organizations

3. Policy development

4. Government relations

L-R: Murray Phillips, Josh Mayko, Jason Warawa, Shaylynn Erickson, Rachel Woitas, and Jeannette Andrashewski, Alberta Canola Director of Region 4.

(Alberta Canola Producers Commission/Submitted Photo)

Through interactive workshops, industry discussions, and networking opportunities, participants gained valuable insights into effective leadership and advocacy within the canola industry. The event provided a unique space for young leaders to engage with experienced mentors and build connections that will help shape the future of agriculture in Alberta.

Jeannette Andrashewski, Alberta Canola’s Region 4 Director, emphasized the importance of leadership development in agriculture:

"Strong leadership is essential to amplifying farmers' voices, shaping policies that support the agriculture industry and rural communities, and driving innovation and growth in the industry. Programs like Canola Leaders equip the next generation with the tools and confidence they need to step into leadership roles, whether within their farming operations, community organizations, or government advocacy."

By investing in leadership development, Alberta Canola is securing a bright future for the canola industry. Agriculture continues to face evolving challenges from shifting market dynamics to policy changes and sustainability initiatives. Equipping young leaders with the skills to navigate these complexities is more important than ever.  Canola Leaders not only prepares individuals for success but also strengthens the resilience and sustainability of Alberta’s farming communities for generations to come.