~ Press release issued by the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation
The 2023 Virginia Farm Bureau Federation Young Farmers Summer Expo will take place July 28-30 in Page County. VFBF Young Farmers is a leadership development and networking program for farmers and agriculture industry professionals ages 18-35. At least 180 young farmers and others with an interest in agriculture are expected to gather at the expo to network, learn about key agricultural issues and explore agriculture in the area.
Speakers for the event include Dr. Rousawn Dozier, a motivational speaker who will share his journey from overcoming adversity in his youth to earning a doctorate of organizational leadership, as well as Will Overman, a country-Americana singer-songwriter and mental health advocate.
There also will be a panel discussion featuring first-generation farmers sharing strategies for growth and answering commonly asked questions about their agriculture operations. In addition, young farmers and legislators will discuss hot agricultural topics in legislative roundtables. Tours will be held in Page and Rockingham counties on Friday and Saturday, with locations to be announced.
Finalists for three Young Farmers awards will give presentations before judging panels, and recipients of the Outstanding Young Agriculturalist recognition, Achievement Award and Excellence in Agriculture Award will be announced Saturday evening during dinner at River Crest Farm.
Finalists for the Young Farmers Discussion Meet also will be announced, and they will compete in late November. The Discussion Meet is designed to simulate a committee meeting in which discussion and active participation are expected from each contestant. Relevant topics are presented to competitors, who are judged on their discussion skills, understanding of important agricultural issues and ability to build consensus.
Registration is free and includes meals, programs, workshops, tours, expo T-shirts and networking opportunities. Full registration or one-day registration is available.
With 133,000 members in 88 county Farm Bureaus, VFBF is Virginia’s largest farmers’ advocacy group. Farm Bureau is a non-governmental, nonpartisan, voluntary organization committed to supporting Virginia’s agriculture industry.
Visit vafb.swoogo.com/2023yfsummerexpo
for additional information and to register.
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