Young leaders recognized by Ontario Federation of Agriculture

The Ontario Federation of Agriculture awarded five young people pursuing careers in agriculture each with a $2000 bursary.

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The undergraduate, postgraduate and apprenticeship awards were presented at the OFA’s annual general meeting in Toronto Nov. 26.

OFA President Drew Spoelstra said in a release this year’s recipients “are passionate about agriculture, dedicated to their communities, and determined to build strong futures for themselves, their families, and the industry.

“It’s crucial to recognize the emerging talent entering the agricultural sector, and we’re proud to support these young individuals as they embark on their careers. Through these bursaries, we celebrate their potential and look forward to helping them achieve their goals and contribute to the growth of our industry.”

The bursary program is open to applicants who live in Ontario, are OFA members, or the child or employee of an OFA member. Applications are judged based on demonstrated leadership skills, involvement in the community, and varied accomplishments in both school and the agriculture industry.

Postgraduate Bursary Winner – Alaina MacDonald, Clifford (Wellington County)

Alaina MacDonald is a veterinarian and PhD candidate in Population Medicine at the University of Guelph, focusing on One Health—exploring the links between human, animal, and environmental health. With a background in veterinary training and research on emerging diseases at the livestock-wildlife-human interface, Alaina has contributed to multiple international conferences and publications. She has also volunteered in Uganda and Tanzania, strengthening her commitment to global agriculture and public health. Alaina remains active in her rural community through 4-H and zoonotic disease education, with aspirations to make significant contributions to global health and veterinary medicine.

Apprenticeship Bursary Winner – Bobby Robinson, Finch (Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry Counties)

Bobby Robinson is a young farmer with a passion for agriculture and community involvement. After completing his Red Seal Agricultural Specialist High Skills major, Bobby enrolled in the Dairy Herdsperson Apprenticeship program at Ridgetown College. He runs Baler Bob Custom Work, a custom baling business he founded that serves local farmers. Bobby is also active in 4-H Ontario and local agricultural societies, with a goal to take over the family farm and continue mentoring the next generation of farmers.

Undergraduate Bursary Winner – Kaylee Wells, Jasper (Leeds and Greenville Counties)

Kaylee Wells is a student in the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture program at the University of Guelph, focusing on the beef industry and Hereford cattle. Raised on a Hereford farm, she owns her own herd and is active in the university’s Beef and Dairy Clubs. A dedicated 4-H member and Junior 4-H Leader, Kaylee aims to improve beef cattle efficiency through her research in genetics and nutrition and share her findings with global producers.

Undergraduate Bursary Winner – Mary Brander, Rockwood (Wellington County)

Mary Brander is in her second year of a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture at the University of Guelph, majoring in Animal Science. Growing up on a family farm and participating in 4-H, she is passionate about animal health, particularly in large animal veterinary care. Mary has gained practical experience through co-op work placements and aims to prevent and treat diseases in food animals. She is also deeply involved in community service, including 4-H leadership and charity work, and is committed to advancing the agricultural industry and animal health.

Undergraduate Bursary Winner – Kyla Lewis, Dorchester (Thames Centre)

Kyla Lewis is a fourth-year Animal Biology student at the University of Guelph with a focus on dairy nutrition. With over 10 years of experience in the dairy industry, Kyla plans to pursue a master’s degree in animal nutrition to become a dairy nutritionist. She has excelled academically, receiving multiple scholarships and awards, and is highly involved in 4-H leadership, agricultural clubs, and event organization. Kyla aims to help dairy farmers optimize herd nutrition and promote sustainable farming practices.

Funds raised at the silent auction held at the OFA’s annual meeting this year will go toward OFA’s 2025 Bursary Program.

The OFA has an extensive list of available scholarships and bursaries for all post-secondary students interested in pursuing a career in the agriculture industry on its website.