NOTE: March 1 is the deadline for Michigan’s outstanding Young Farmers to apply for the 2022 Young Farmer Awards. Read on for some motivation from a winner.
By Loren King
One of the greatest opportunities in agriculture is the chance to share new ideas and represent where you come from. That’s where award programs like Excellence in Agriculture can benefit everyone in the industry.
I competed for the Excellence in Agriculture award in 2021 and found it a truly fulfilling experience. As someone who is passionate about innovation and technology, it was great to share my story and what I care about. I was assisted by my county board of directors, administrative manager and regional manager. Together we were able to strengthen my application before submitting it to the judges.
The state-level interview was incredible — a Zoom interview with three distinguished members of the agriculture community. I shared my history and opinions about how we can help agriculture. After the judges completed their scoring, I was notified of my selection.
Representing Michigan at the national level competition was an honor. I worked with Michigan Farm Bureau staff to develop my presentation and story, then shared it at the state annual meeting. The presentation itself was easier than I expected, the audience was supportive — great questions and advice — and after that I was ready for the national-level competition.
That, again, starts with an application, after which you get invited to the American Farm Bureau annual convention for a presentation. You share your story with a group of judges, then your scores for presentation plus your application score help determine if you make the top ten, which presents again the next day.
I was honored to make it that far, and in the process continued to develop my skills. With practice, I really grew in my presentation and interview abilities — from being able to memorize a script to doing an interview on the radio. I also learned how to consider my life critically, understanding the key themes that have guided where I am and where I want to go.
Pursuing this award was a great opportunity to share the story of my community and the ideas I care about. If you are working on something you want to share with the industry, presenting your ideas as part of the Excellence in Agriculture program is the way to go.
Attending the American Farm Bureau Annual Convention as part of the Michigan delegation was a fulfilling experience. I learned a lot and made many friends I intend to stay in touch with.
More than that though, I was able to solidify and understand how to best support the industry we all care about.
Loren King is Michigan’s 2021 Excellence in Agriculture winner.