5 Winter 2024 | East Deanna Ciaccia How do you invest in the future of agriculture? You sponsor young women studying to continue to be part of the agriculture community. At the Advancing Women in Agriculture Conference held in November 2024 in Niagara Falls, the spotlight was not only on industry experts and seasoned professionals but also on the students who are already trailblazers in the field of agriculture. With the generous support of several key sponsors, 20 students from educational institutions including Dalhousie University, the University of Alberta, the University of Guelph, the University of Saskatchewan, and the University of British Columbia were able to attend the conference, transforming their experience and setting the stage for their future careers. For many of these students, attending the conference wasn’t just about gaining knowledge—it was about opening doors to new possibilities and building confidence. “As a student that started in environmental engineering and is now focused on agricultural soil science, it was a great opportunity to network with inspiring women, farmers, and industry professionals,” said Camila Cardoso, a PhD student from the University of Alberta. “The AWC conference had a warm environment that helped me believe in myself and realize how many career paths are out there in agriculture.” These students had the chance to connect with professionals from across the agriculture and food industries, gaining invaluable insights that will help shape their careers. Networking opportunities alone made a lasting impact. Krishani Sinhalage, a student from the University of Guelph, shared: “Attending the Advancing Women in Agriculture Conference was an empowering experience. It provided invaluable insights from industry leaders, practical strategies for growth, and meaningful networking opportunities. The event reinforced the importance of collaboration and inspired me to continue contributing to agriculture with confidence and purpose.” A defining feature of the conference was the sense of community it fostered. Through the student sponsorship program, these young women had the opportunity to attend speaker sessions and workshops, participate in networking events, and enjoy a student-sponsored lunch on the final day. Throughout these experiences, they connected with their sponsors to gain insights about the industry, explore potential opportunities, and refine their personal brand with women engaged in various facets of agriculture. The chance to mingle with established leaders in the field provided them For many of these students, attending the conference wasn’t just about gaining knowledge—it was about opening doors to new possibilities and building confidence. SUPPORTING YOUNG WOMEN IN AGRICULTURE FOSTERING GROWTH, LEADERSHIP, AND OPPORTUNITY IN AGRICULTURE
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