The second cohort of the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council (CAYC), comprising 25 young people, has been named. The inaugural meeting will be held later this summer. The members of this cohort will serve 18-month terms.

Young farmers are committed, energetic, passionate and full of ideas on the future of the agriculture and agri-food sector. To build on these strengths, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada has given the Council the mandate to make recommendations and help find solutions to issues facing young people in the agricultural sector.

The renewed Council will see 15 new faces joining the 10 returning members serving a second term. Together, this second cohort of the Youth Council represents subsectors from across the agriculture and agri-food value chain.

The Council's main task is to ensure that the perspectives of youth in agriculture are well understood, and to help inform on policy, programs, planning and decision-making. The views of Canadian young people are vital in developing government policy and programs that meet the needs of future generations.

 "I was impressed by the energy and enthusiasm of the first cohort of the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council and look forward to working with this new group,” says Hon. Marie-Claude Bibeau. “Young people's perspectives on issues such as sustainable agriculture, innovation, intergenerational transfers, mental health and work-life balance allow us to shape the sector's future in their image."

Source:  Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada August 11, 2022 news release