4-H Manitoba announces recipients of Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship

Jun 21, 2022

4-H Manitoba is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2022 Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarships.

The Manitoba Government generously established a $1 million endowment fund with the Brandon Area Community Foundation, which provided $42,500 for scholarships this year. Four current and former 4-H Manitoba members were selected to receive scholarships towards their post-secondary education.

“We congratulate the 2022 scholarship recipients and wish them all the best in their education and future careers. 4-H members of today are tomorrow’s future leaders,” said Philip Fenez, President of 4-H Manitoba. “The calibre of scholarship applicants was exceptional. Our program is proud to support our members, enabling them to take future leadership roles in agriculture, environmental sustainability and their community as a whole.”

4-H Manitoba’s goal is to build leadership in youth and adults and enhance the development of life and leadership skills as youth “Learn To Do By Doing”.

“More than 100 years ago, Canada’s 4-H movement began here in Manitoba, paving the way for a long and successful history of opportunities for Manitoba’s youth to develop leadership and communication skills while learning about agriculture and environmental sustainability,” said Agriculture Minister Derek Johnson. “On behalf of the Manitoba government, I congratulate all of the 2022 scholarship recipients and extend my heartfelt wishes as they head toward a bright future in our province.”

The Leaders of Tomorrow scholarships were awarded in honour and recognition of four long-serving leaders.

The 2022 Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship recipients are:

Kaitlyn Crowe University of Manitoba $12,500
In honour of Sandra Duchak, Gainsborough Combined 4-H Club

Christyna Caldwell Brandon University $10,000
In honour of Norma Wood, Morden Achievers 4-H Club

Emily Robb University of Manitoba $10,000
In honour of the late Pat Baker, Newdale 4-H Club

Caleb Fenez University of Winnipeg $10,000
In honour of Eleanor Penner, Steinbach Sizzlers 4-H Club

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Video: Why Seed Analysts are Thriving Under Seeds Canada

Last month in Edmonton, Alta., industry leaders and stakeholders gathered to discuss the evolving landscape of the seed industry at Seeds Canada’s annual conference. Among them was Sarah Foster, president of 2020 Seed Labs and the new vice-president of Seeds Canada.

Foster, who has been on the board of Seeds Canada for over a year, has witnessed firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with the formation of the organization. Seeds Canada was established just over three years ago through the merger of multiple seed industry groups, including the Commercial Seed Analysts Association of Canada (CSAAC). Since then, the organization has been working to define its priorities and solidify its role in the industry.

“The challenge has been allowing the dust to settle after the merger,” Foster explained. “We’ve been focused on identifying what our priorities should be and ensuring that our members, especially the seed analysts, are getting what they need to continue their professional work.”

One of the recent highlights was a pre-conference event where the three major seed labs in Alberta — 20/20 Seed Labs, SGS Canada and Seed Check — opened their doors to members. The event saw a record number of seed analysts and business professionals in attendance. Foster emphasized the importance of this transparency, stating, “It’s crucial for people to see what goes on behind the scenes. We’re an open book now, and that openness helps build trust and understanding within the industry.”

The event also featured an environmental scan and a series of discussions that fostered strong communication among attendees. According to Foster, the dialogue was both encouraging and inspiring.

“A lot of people were really inspired by the fact that Seeds Canada is moving ahead with its agenda. The seed analysts, who have always worked diligently in the background, are now being recognized more prominently,” she said.

Before the merger, seed analysts were represented by CSAAC. Now, as part of Seeds Canada, they are finding their place within the larger organization. Foster believes that the integration has been successful, noting, “I think we’re thriving. You only need to look south of the border, where similar consolidations are happening.”

As Seeds Canada continues to evolve, Foster remains optimistic about the future. “I want to be totally transparent with anyone who is a seed analyst — I’ve got your back. We’re moving in a positive direction, and we’ll do everything we can to meet the needs of our members,” she said.