Young farmers and ranchers gathered in Starkville at the beginning of March to connect, grow and develop their leadership skills. With this many attendees, the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Young Farmers & Ranchers Leadership Conference boasted its largest turnout yet.

“A lot of people have come in with open minds because they see the value in community, connecting, and being a part of something bigger than just yourself,” said 2023 YF&R Chairman Carl Davis Parker. “Coming to events like this exposes you to things that make you a little uncomfortable, but a better person for it.”

Speakers from across the nation led sessions focused on issues farmers and ranchers face every day, and not just those related to the farm. Attendees were challenged to think positively, lean on each other rather than isolate, and get the most out of the weekend.

“These young farmers and ranchers are having to do more educating than some of the older generations had to do,” said Kelsey Barnes, Director of Government Affairs for the Farm Journal Foundation. “They are more willing to open up their farms and homes, and say, ‘Hey, we’re not the bad guy here. We’re actually the good guy, and we want you to come see what we’re doing.’”

This group of up-and-coming leaders even received encouragement from Mississippi Congressman Michael Guest.

“I appreciate Farm Bureau letting me be a part of this event,” Guest said. “We consider food security as national security. A nation that cannot feed itself is destined to fail, which is why we’re going to continue supporting this group and all of our farmers.”

For many in attendance, this event served as their first introduction to MFBF. MFBF President Mike McCormick hopes their experience will encourage them to become more involved.

“The only way we’re going to grow this organization is to support those beginning their career and those first generation farmers. The future of our organization is tied directly to these young leaders,” he said.

And, because of the grassroots structure of Farm Bureau, the future of the organization will go where these young leaders take it, said Joby Young, American Farm Bureau Federation Executive Vice President.

“They’re the ones that have the story and can talk about it,” he said. “They know how a certain policy or trend affects the actual production of our food and fiber, our rural communities and farm families. No one can tell that story better than they can.”

Less than a decade ago, the first YF&R Leadership Conference hosted 25 participants. Now, with more than 400 attendees, the event has grown into one of the biggest MFBF hosts each year. Members said it’s because of the difference YF&R has made in their lives – personally and professionally.

“This event allows us to have open discussions amongst our fellow farmers,” said Benton County farmer Chase Samples. “And, even if we have different viewpoints, we all want to help agriculture move forward. The camaraderie between all of us like nothing else.”

“I work in healthcare. By being involved in Farm Bureau, I have the resources to have conversations with people about rural health and how certain policies not only affect that, but the farmer, as well,” said Copiah County farmer Kortney Gaddy.

“Farm Bureau does a great job developing the next generation in our state through programs, such as YF&R and the new Landmark Leadership Council. These programs are pivotal to putting us in places of service and leadership, no matter what our background or commodity, so that we can answer the call and be advocates for Mississippi agriculture,” said Alcorn County farmer Jay Slater.

“Farm Bureau is everywhere, and I think everybody recognizes the importance of the work the organization does. With that being said, it’s important for me to stay involved,” said Sunflower County farmer Sarah Clarke.

“I love the opportunity to talk about agriculture, especially when it could possibly reach someone who doesn’t know anything about it.  It’s our responsibility to make sure the public is informed with accurate information about what is going on in our industry,” said Oktibbeha County Farm Bureau member Kacey Watson said.