The SpeakAg Pioneer Program is a one-year leadership and advocacy experience that’s shaping the next generation of agriculture storytellers.
Each year, a select group of young leaders from across the country join the SpeakAg Pioneer cohort. These participants host workshops, create social-media content, and engage with local, state and national policymakers to promote agricultural literacy and advocacy. One such SpeakAg Pioneer is FFA Indiana State Secretary Lauren Argotte.
“I originally heard about the program years before even running for state office. There’s been a few state officers prior to me that have been SpeakAg Pioneers for National FFA. I always loved learning about the program and seeing all of the amazing things that they were doing. I love all things agricultural communications so whether that’s podcasts, video, or photography…I love it. I knew that the SpeakAg Pioneer program would be a unique experience for me to continue growing but allow others to grow as well.”
At the heart of the program is the idea that every member’s story matters — whether you’re growing crops, raising livestock, working in agribusiness or connecting urban consumers to the farm.
“To me advocacy means leaving something better than you found it. Growing up my mom always instilled that value in me…whether it was helping my little brothers, or taking on a bigger passion of mine, leaving something better than you found it and advocating for every right thing. Even if it’s difficult, you don’t give up on it…that’s something that FFA has truly taught me.”
For FFA chapters, educators and students: if you’re interested in advocacy, social media storytelling or community engagement around agriculture, keep an eye on the SpeakAg Pioneer Program application period. It’s an opportunity to become a voice for your chapter — and for agriculture.
See the full interview from the 98th Annual FFA Convention and Expo here:
