But regardless of where the organization is pointed, I know we are in good hands.
I saw that with confidence, because I’m energized by the young journalists we get to meet at IFAJ activities around the world. Earlier this year IFAJ had a press tour organized by the Serbian guild, which is made up mostly of young people. It was refreshing to talk with them and hear their views on our profession and agriculture.
It was an inspiration to be around young people who continue to refine their skills even in uncertain economic circumstances.
I got the same feeling when I met the 2011 class of journalists participating in the IFAJ-Alltech Young Leaders in Agricultural Journalism program at this year’s IFAJ Congress, in Canada.
Despite language and cultural differences, this group of 10 professionals – all under the age of 35 – quickly formed into a tight-knit group of colleagues who care about each other, the future of our profession, and the future of IFAJ.
The Young Leader program, for those of you who may not be aware, began six years ago with the simple idea that IFAJ needed to recognize young professionals and help them become more engaged in our world organization. Since then the program has brought nearly 50 young journalists to congress events. This year we added a ‘boot camp,’ a two-day workshop, to help the winners develop professionally. We expect the program to continue in Sweden in 2012. Look for details at www.ifaj.org.
As I looked around the room at the awards banquet in Canada, I saw a lot of bright, young faces – the faces of people who will become the new leaders of IFAJ someday (see photo). They will also no doubt lead our profession as we face new challenges in coming years.
On my university where I graduated “just” 30 years ago, there is a statue with the words, “To thy happy children of the future, those of the past send greetings.” No matter where you are on the career ladder, we are all connected. Each of us learn every day how to become better, more passionate communicators.
To our younger members with fire in your belly, welcome to the IFAJ; we can use your bright new ideas, your enthusiasm, your energy. To my colleagues caught up in the peak of our careers, let’s remember to help and mentor these folks. Doing so is a way to give something back to your profession. A few words of encouragement can go a long way.
IFAJ needs to cultivate its future leaders, just as a farmer needs to make wise choices about the future of his or her business. This next generation gives IFAJ a greater sense of purpose.
Go talk to a young journalist. I guarantee you, the enthusiasm is contagious.
