International Youth In Canadian Agriculture
PRESS RELEASE

FROM AYCA to IYCA

In recognition of the vital role that diversity plays in the future of agriculture and the increasingly interconnected nature of our society, we are hereby announcing the transition of our organization from African Youths in Canadian Agriculture (AYCA) to International Youths in Canadian Agriculture (IYCA).

 This change underscores our commitment to inclusivity and the integration of youth from underrepresented and diverse backgrounds into the Canadian agricultural landscape.

Mission Statement: The mission of IYCA is to empower and engage underrepresented youth from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds in the agricultural sector, promoting sustainable practices, education, and community development. We aim to build a collaborative platform that encourages the sharing of ideas, knowledge, and resources among international youth, fostering innovation and resilience in Canadian agriculture.

"Inclusivity is essential to building a stronger agricultural sector that reflects the diversity of our country. By ensuring that everyone has a seat at the table, we can harness the full potential of our agricultural community and drive innovation for the benefit of all Canadians." - Marie-Claude Bibeau, the former Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.

IYCA Objectives:

  1. Inclusion and Diversity: To create a welcoming environment for underrepresented youth from all corners of the globe, enhancing their participation in Canadian agriculture through access to resources, training, and mentorship.

  2. Education and Skills Development: To provide educational workshops, boot camps, webinars, training programs, and practical experiences that develop essential skills in areas such as sustainable farming practices, agribusiness management, and environmental stewardship.

  3. Community Engagement: To actively engage with local communities and agricultural stakeholders, fostering cooperation and understanding between diverse groups and encouraging leadership among specific underrepresented youth in community development initiatives.

  4. Advocacy and Awareness: To raise awareness about the contributions of underrepresented youth in agriculture, advocating for policies and practices that support diversity and inclusion within the sector.

  5. Global Collaboration: To promote partnerships and collaborations with international organizations and youth networks, facilitating knowledge exchange and collective action on global agricultural challenges.

The activities of IYCA will focus on advancing education, promoting social inclusion, and supporting the development of underrepresented youth skills in Canadian agriculture. By achieving our mission and objectives, IYCA aims to create a positive impact on the agricultural community in Canada and contribute to the global dialogue on sustainable agricultural practices.

This transition to IYCA reflects our commitment to embracing a more inclusive and culturally rich approach to agriculture in Canada, recognizing that the challenges and opportunities in this field require the collaboration of diverse voices and experiences. We invite underrepresented youth from all backgrounds to join us in this transformative journey, as we work together to build a sustainable and equitable future for the agricultural sector in Canada.