Applications open for APAS Young Leaders Program

The Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS) is proud to once again offer the APAS Young Leaders (AYL) program, presented by Farm Credit Canada (FCC).

Formerly known as the Youth Leadership and Mentorship Program, AYL offers producers in Saskatchewan between the ages of 18 and 40 the opportunity to experience and learn about farm policy from the grassroots all the way to Ottawa in an engaging and supportive environment.

“AYL is a great way for young farmers to grow their network and learn the importance of agriculture policy and its impacts on farm operations,” APAS President and past participant in the program, Ian Boxall, said. “The program acts as a succession planning tool to equip the next generation of farm leaders with the skills and tools they need to continue driving Saskatchewan farm and ranch success.”

Since 2014, 40 young leaders have completed the program, which includes participating in APAS District Meetings, the APAS General Meeting in Regina in December, and a trip to Ottawa to the Canadian Federation of Agriculture’s AGM.

"We share APAS's passion for making Canadian agriculture better and recognize the importance of mentoring young producers," Senior Vice-President of Prairie Operations for FCC Shannon Weatherall said. "Helping each other succeed through networking and mentoring is an integral part of our corporate culture and how we do business, which makes supporting this program a natural fit.”

“I wanted to take part in this program because I was looking for an avenue to lead me into the direction of governance, government, or policy without having to get a full-time job to find those avenues, and it didn’t disappoint,” 2022-23 mentee Eric Martens said. “It’s shown me a lot of different aspects of the policy needed and the governance needed to help carry the voice of agriculture and impact the changes needed to keep policies in the forefront, but also including the producer’s voice in it.”

Those interested in applying for the AYL program are encouraged to submit their application online through the APAS website. The application deadline is August 31, 2023.