The requirement for more young people to play a proactive role within agriculture and rural society has never been greater.
This is the clearly held view of Roberta Simmons, the newly appointed membership and development manager with the Young Farmers Clubs of Ulster (YFCU).
The Co. Down native is a former president of the organisation.
She made these comments while addressing the launch of Newry Show 2026, adding: “Young people today are facing major challenges.
“These include the changes taking place within farming and food and the pressures associated with modern life.
“But there is also so much positivity to be found in the ways by which we call move forward.
“Young people must be fit financially, physically and mentally as they look to the future.
“Looking ahead, our rural communities need young people who are resilient, adaptable and supportive.”
According to Simmons, YFCU continues to play a key role in developing the skill sets required by young people as they look to the future.
She said: “These include the forging of business and leadership skills.
“Where farming is concerned, young people bring a unique combination of enthusiasm, new ideas, innovation and determination.”
YFCU
YFCU is Northern Ireland’s largest youth organisation with a history stretching back to 1929.
It boasts 3,600 members, encouraging individual development and provides a social outlet for rural communities through competitions and events.
Simmons said: “Agriculture continues to involve, creating both challenges and opportunities.
“For its part, YFCU helps develop the experience and skills sets that young people committee to a career in farming will need as they look to the future.
“It’s all about stepping outside of one’s comfort zone. YFCU was established to help create better farmers, better countrymen and better citizens.
“And while times may have changed since 1929, these values still remain incredibly relevant today.”
She believes that YFCU plays a very important role within the agricultural community.
“It gives young people a platform to engage within the industry while also understanding the challenges and opportunities the sector faces,” she explained.
“The organisation also helps to shape the next generation of leaders: not only within agriculture but across our rural communities. And all of this can be built on for the future.”
YFCU will have a major presence at Newry Show 2026, which will take place on Saturday, June 27.