We recently spoke to Bryony Kneale, Secretary of the Isle of Man Federation of Young Farmers, who filled us in on all the latest from the Young Farmer's community and their big plans for the rest of the year.
🟦 Can you tell us a bit about what upcoming plans and activities the group has?
Following the lifting of the local lockdowns, we have filled many dates on the calendar to ensure we get our usual competitions in before the year ends. Unfortunately, we had to make the decision to cancel this year's Young Farmers Concert which was hugely disappointing but, we have so much to look forward to still. Our team public speaking is still to come as well as all our stock judging rounds and the new Interclub sports trophy competition where each club will host a different sport. We will of course have many socials in between and will be present at both the Southern and Royal Agricultural Show's which we are so looking forward to after missing them last year due to COVID. We're also in the early stages of planning our 75th Anniversary Ball which is to be held at the Villa Marina Royal Hall in November, so that is definitely something for people to look out for!
🟩 How/when did you become a member?
I became a member at the earliest opportunity when I was 10 years old and have been a member ever since. I did a few years part-time whilst at uni but still tried to attend as many events and competitions as possible when I was home.
🟦 What does being part of Young Farmers mean to you?
It's an extended family and support system. It's a place to find forever friends (or even your other half!!) and learn new skills that you can apply in many aspects of life.
🟩 How would you describe the Young Farmers community in 3 words?
Welcoming, educational and fun!
🟦 How has uptake been over the past few years, are you seeing a wider variety of people joining?
We've had quite a lot of new junior members from a variety of backgrounds join over the last few years which is great! We'd always love to see more join though and adults too. The cut-off age is 36 but you don't have to have joined young, you can get involved at any age under that!
🟩 How can others get involved in the Young Farmers community?
Find us on Facebook! We try to keep our page up-to-date with all our upcoming events from both the Federation and the individual clubs. The public is welcome at all these events and it's good to have a go at any of them if you're keen to get involved and sign up to become a member. Anyone can join between the ages of 10 and 36 and you don't have to be a farmer to be in Young Farmers! If anyone needs any additional info, they can also email us at iomyoungfarmers@outlook.com.
View the Isle of Man Young Farmers Facebook page here
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