A new partnership between The National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs’ (NFYFC) and AGCO Parts, a leading global manufacturer of agricultural equipment, is helping to develop skills in young farmers under 18 years old.
AGCO Parts is supporting NFYFC’s Youth Forum – a steering group that was set up to represent the views of younger members of the Federation. The group help to develop ideas for competitions and events that will appeal to members under the age of 18, as well as take an active role in the British Youth Council.
Members meet three times a year – including a residential weekend, which this year is taking place from 31 Jan to 2 February at Oaker Wood Leisure in Herefordshire. AGCO Parts will also be attending the Youth Forum’s meeting on Sunday 2 February to officially meet the group.
David Howe, Manager, Complementary Product Business, EAME, AGCO Parts Division, said: “The farming industry has some challenges but also presents some very exciting opportunities as the industry evolves with even more new technologies to support the growing food production needs of the population.
“The youth of today are our employees and customers of the future and with that we are very pleased to support the NFYFC’s Youth Forum through 2014. This support will give Young Farmers and particularly the Youth Forum the opportunity to meet and share experiences with the team at AGCO – but it also gives us the opportunity of seeing and listening to the views, ideas and interests of the future drivers of our industry.
“Attracting and retaining young people into the farming industry is essential to its future and with that we are hopeful our support to the National Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs will help in several ways.”
Claire Worden, NFYFC’s National Chairman of Council, said: “We are delighted that AGCO Parts is supporting our Youth Forum and helping to develop the skills and confidence of NFYFC’s younger members.
“The Forum only formed in 2010 but already they have made a big impact on our organisation – not least with the introduction of our mascot SuperMoo! This boost from a major global manufacturer such as AGCO Parts will give the group even more credibility and help us to develop the next generation of farming leaders.”
