Agriculture in the Classroom Canada (AITC-C), a national leader in youth agricultural education, plays a crucial role in fostering agricultural literacy across the country. Through engaging programs and initiatives like Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month (CALM) and thinkAG, AITC-C, alongside ten provincial members, help young Canadians explore the diverse career opportunities in agriculture and agri-food. With a strong focus on sustainability and innovation, AITC-C empowers students to understand agriculture’s pivotal role in society, the environment, and the economy.

As an advocate for youth education, AITC-C actively participates in initiatives that advance its mission. A key example is its involvement in the Tri-National Agriculture Youth Council Working Group, which reflects with AITC-C’s commitment to empowering young voices in agriculture. By integrating Canadian perspectives into North American discussions, AITC-C is helping to ensure that youth voices are heard, bridging knowledge gaps and building resilient, sustainable rural communities.

The youth council, under the guidance of the North American Agricultural Advisory Network (NAAAN), aims to empower young voices across Canada, the US, and Mexico in shaping the future of the agriculture and agri-food industry.

The idea for the youth council took root at the Global Forum for Rural Advisory Services (GFRAS) meeting in Denver, where Kalysha Hanrahan, thinkAG manager for AITC-C, and other agriculture professionals from across North America gathered to empower rural communities by promoting innovation, skill development, and information sharing.

Although the conference included discussions on youth inclusion, Hanrahan and her peers felt there was a need for deeper integration of youth perspectives in these critical conversations.

Recognizing the need for a platform where youth could genuinely engage, they set out to create the youth council—a dedicated space for young voices in agriculture.

“I'm no stranger to hearing that [agriculture is] a difficult industry to come into and find your place in when you're a younger person, so I think groups like this help ease youth into that. It creates a safe space to enter into agriculture,” says Hanrahan.

The group will consist of a diverse array of young professionals—scientists, producers, entrepreneurs, and not-for-profit workers—from Canada, the US, and Mexico. These individuals, all under the age of 39, will bring unique perspectives and expertise to the table.

The youth council will operate under the overarching goals of NAAAN, which focus on sharing innovation and knowledge across North America in three thematic areas: biodefense and management of natural diseases; improving soil health and water management; and building the next generation of leaders in agriculture. While all three themes are vital, the youth council will be particularly dedicated to the third, as its members strive to inspire young people to pursue careers in agriculture.

The sector faces significant labour shortages, and the group believes that by giving the next generation a seat at the table and raising awareness about the diverse opportunities available, they can inspire more youth to consider a future in agriculture.

“[The next generation is] hyper aware that we can’t all live in the city forever,” says Hanrahan.  “Building up rural jobs and food systems is critical. We’re trying to keep those economies sustainable because we know it’s the only way we’ll have somewhere we can afford to live.”

This proactive approach not only addresses current economic challenges but also ensures that agriculture remains a viable and attractive option for future generations.

This conversation goes hand in hand with Agriculture in the Classroom Canada’s thinkAG initiative, which promotes career opportunities, dismantles outdated perceptions, and highlights the industry’s relevance in a modern context. As thinkAG actively encourages students to recognize their skills and interests as being a valuable match for the agriculture industry, the youth council will provide youth a safe space to learn and contribute as they integrate into the sector.

As the youth council moves toward its official launch in the coming year, it aims to equip the next generation with the tools and networks needed to thrive in the industry. The working group is not just about sharing information; it’s about fostering confidence among young leaders and creating pathways for meaningful engagement and career growth.

AITC-C is proud to contribute to this significant initiative, growing the next generation of agriculture leaders.

To learn more, visit thinkag.ca.