The Calgary Stampede is hosting a public speaking competition for young Albertans with a passion for agriculture. The Alberta's Young Speakers for Agriculture Competition gives young people an opportunity to share their thoughts about the Ag industry, while building communication skills.
The event is held during the Stampede, and is for anyone age 11-24.

Winner of last year's competition, Emily Ritchie, says the competition allowed her to make connections in the Ag industry and build confidence.

"The competition was a really fantastic event. It gave young people who are passionate about agriculture a really great platform to express their passions, and talk about about what they thought was important coming up in the agriculture industry."

Ritchie adds, the event was run by great people, and was a good opportunity for networking.

"It's a lot easier than it sounds like it is. It's an exciting event, and there are a lot of people who are really welcoming and encouraging about participation. You definitely don't feel like you are out there alone on the stage."

The speakers choose a topic to speak on from the following:

• Working in agriculture is more than just farming.
• Does digital farming have a place in the future of Canadian agriculture?
• Farm gate to dinner plate: the importance of food traceability for Canadian consumers.
• How will we feed 9 billion people by 2050?
• Food waste: what is the global impact and who is responsible for making a change?

The event is broken into two categories; Seniors (16-24) and Juniors (11-15). The 1st place winner will receive $1000 cash.

The deadline to enter is June 30. To enter this event you can visit their website.