ATLANTIC AGRICULTURAL LEADERSHIP PROGRAM INVITES APPLICATIONS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Free-Press-Release.com) June 24, 2009 -- A call for applications for Class 8 of the Atlantic Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP), an 18-month leadership development initiative for rising agricultural leaders in Atlantic Canada, went out today to those who have a desire to both shape the future of the agri-food industry and to strengthen rural communities.

1 2 3

ATLANTIC AGRICULTURAL LEADERSHIP PROGRAM INVITES APPLICATIONS

Welcome visit Our WebSite:

http://www.agleaders.ca

AALP offers a series of seminars and international study tours to help Atlantic Canadians already working in the agriculture sector develop solid leadership skills, learn the opportunities and challenges of today’s agri-food industry, and connect with agri-leaders, both locally and globally.

“There is an opportunity for personal growth and skills development that will be invaluable for their communities,” says John E. Henry, Director, AALP. “This program helps participants broaden their knowledge of local and international agriculture; develop networks with existing and future agri-leaders; and cultivate a broad range of skills needed to adequately address the challenges of 21st century agriculture.”

“I have completed other executive development and leadership programs; however, the AALP with its focus on the agri-foods industry from the farmer’s gate to the consumer’s plate, is a must for any level manager within the food and foodservice industries,” states Class 7 AALP graduate Frank Dormody, Vice-President, Newfoundland Eggs Inc., Roaches Line.

“The exposure to real agri-businesses and real consumers throughout Atlantic Canada allows participants to gain a perspective that you do not get from behind your desk, on your farm or in your plant providing participants with a comprehensive experience that you can practically apply in almost any business,” adds Dormody. “An added benefit is the network of which you become part. I have already utilized this resource for research and problem solving.”

“AALP was an exceptional opportunity to broaden my knowledge of the agriculture industry on an Atlantic, national and international scale,” says Paul Connors, Executive Director for Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture, Mount Pearl. “Although the program focuses on building leadership skills through networking with farmers, producers, retailers, bureaucrats, politicians, and other agriculture stakeholders, it also allows participants to experience just about every aspect of the industry from planting a seed in the ground, to processing, to the business side of the industry.

Like Dormody, Connors also found the networking invaluable. “Our class was comprised of young and experienced farmers; bankers; and representatives from both government and farm organizations. The networking opportunities at the class level were amazing and the broader network of contacts through our travels throughout Atlantic Canada and abroad were phenomenal. The AALP program was truly a tremendous experience.”

The program includes sessions on team building, media relations, public speaking, conflict planning and lobbying. In addition to Chile, past international study tours have incorporated trips to Washington, DC, New Zealand and Brazil.

Class 8 runs from November 2009 to March 2011 and qualifying applicants should be over the age of 25, have demonstrated leadership ability and be willing to commit time to the betterment of the agric-industry through volunteer leadership positions.

Established in 1994, the AALP (formerly the New Brunswick Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program) is a not-for-profit organization. To date there are 127 AALP graduates holding various agriculture related positions in government, not-for-profits and businesses. To learn more about AALP or to apply for the leadership program, go to www.agleaders.ca or contact John E. Henry at 902-843-5870 (jhenry@agleaders.ca). Deadline for applications is September 30, 2009.

More information can be found online at http://www.agleaders.ca

agri-business     Agriculture     atlantic canada     leadership training     local food     producers     program