Celebrating National Young Farmers’ Week: Empowering the Next Generation of Agriculture

At Ceres Group, we’re proud to support and champion young talent in the rural sector. Many of our team members are actively involved in Young Farmers Clubs – from organising local shows and serving on executive committees to mentoring others and promoting rural careers. As we celebrate National Young Farmers’ Week 2025, we take a look at their stories and reflect on the confidence, friendships, and skills gained through YFC.

Beth Speakman, Associate Partner 

I joined Essex Young Farmers as a very shy 16-year-old from a farming family. Getting involved with setting up and clearing up the Essex Young Farmers Show was what really immersed me in the EYF family.

It gave me friends outside of school and university who shared the same love of country pursuits, boosted my confidence to speak in public, and helped me pursue the career I am in now. I went from being the quiet one in the corner to Vice County Chair of the Federation, and even commentating in the main ring at the EYF show. The confidence I gained from EYF allowed me to stand up in a room full of people and speak – a skill that has been invaluable in my role at Ceres Rural.

Rural jobs can be isolating, with many hours spent alone, but organisations like YF offer a crucial social lifeline to young people by creating connections, arranging gatherings in a safe environment, and teaching new skills that help them thrive in rural sectors. I think that is part of the reason why Ceres Group supports Young Farmers competitions and meetings – the value of the YF organisation within the industry is so clear.

Lucy Pepper, Graduate Surveyor

I’m a member of Ongar Young Farmers in Essex, and for 2025/2026, I’ve taken on the role of Secretary on the Essex Young Farmers executive committee. Being part of Young Farmers has given me the chance to try lots of new activities, go on some brilliant farm tours, and make some of my closest friends. My favourite part of each year is getting stuck in at the Essex Young Farmers Show, which takes place in May. It’s a huge team effort, with monthly committee meetings throughout the year building up to a busy set-up week and, finally, a five-star show at the end. By the end, you’re exhausted but already looking forward to the next one – just a testament to how enjoyable and fun the whole experience is.

Young Farmers Clubs are invaluable for young people in rural communities, as they bring together those with similar interests and give us the chance to make friends and socialise. This is especially important in agriculture, where working hours can be anti-social and the work itself often quite isolating.

Dan Jones, Associate

I was part of YFC from the age of 16 to 27 (a total of 11 years), and it has been one of the best experiences of my life, helping me make so many friends along the way. One highlight was taking part in – and winning – the Leicestershire YFC Rally tug of war in 2022 as a member of Oakham YFC.

Rowan Venables, Farming Consultant

Having been a member of Norfolk Young Farmers for five years and recently elected as Vice Chair of North Walsham Young Farmers, I believe that Young Farmers is crucial for nurturing the next generation of farmers. It helps young people build skills such as public speaking, event management, organisational abilities, networking, and overall confidence.

Celebrate National Young Farmers Week – Join, Explore, and Get Involved!

The 6th-10th October 2025 marks National Young Farmers Week, a nationwide celebration of the incredible impact Young Farmers’ Clubs (YFCs) have on rural communities and the lives of young people in agriculture. This year’s theme, “YFC Makes a Difference”, shines a spotlight on the acts of kindness, community spirit, and personal growth fostered through YFC membership.

To find out more visit https://www.nfyfc.org.uk/national-young-farmers-week