Next Gen Agriculture Mentorship Program Welcomes New Mentees and Mentors

Released on March 22, 2022

Today, the Canadian Western Agribition's (CWA) Next Gen Agriculture Mentorship Program welcomes the newest group of agriculture leaders.

“Young Canadians are the ones who will shape the future of agriculture, and we all benefit from having them learn from seasoned mentors," said Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. "With the Next Gen Program, our government is supporting knowledge transfer to get the next generation of farmers on the right track toward successful careers.”

"The Next Gen Agriculture Mentorship Program plays an important role in the sustainability of the agriculture sector," said Agriculture Minister David Marit. "Through this mentorship, bright, young leaders can develop the essential skills and tools to advance their careers and, ultimately, advance the industry. Congratulations to the mentees and thank you to the mentors for your guidance."

The successful mentees and mentors chosen to participate in this intake are:

• Kaitlyn Kitzan, paired with Dale Leftwich
• David MacTaggart, paired with William Greuel
• Erika Stewart, paired with Mike Sidoryk
• Kristin Thompson, paired with Tara Davidson
• Brooke Dudley, paired with Alison Weaver
• Chelsey Mitchell, paired with Megz Reynolds
• Morgan Heidecker, paired with Sheldon Kyle
• Rena Leier, paired with Clinton Monchuk              

The program matches eight young leaders in the agriculture industry with experienced professionals for an 18-month mentorship where they gain skills and experiences to advance their careers. Mentees gain industry knowledge, board and governance training, business education and networking opportunities that align with their existing skills, interests and desired outcomes.

Established in 2019, the program is entering its fourth cycle. The Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan committed $100,000 to support this intake of mentees.

"CWA remains a proud partner in building the future of agriculture with this program," CWA President Chris Lees said. "The quality of the applicants and the dedication of mentors show how truly important and how bright the future of our industry really is."

The Next Gen Agriculture Mentorship Program is funded through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a five-year, $3 billion commitment by Canada's federal, provincial and territorial governments that supports Canada's agriculture, agri-food and agri-products sectors. This includes a $2 billion commitment that is cost-shared 60 per cent federally and 40 per cent provincially/territorially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories.

More information about the program is available online at saskatchewan.ca/CAP.

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