Saskatchewan farm leader recognized for building trust in agriculture
Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan (FFC SK) has named Cherilyn Jolly-Nagel as the recipient of its 2026 Champion Award, recognizing her long-standing efforts to connect consumers with agriculture and strengthen public trust in farming.
The award was presented during a #CelebrateAg luncheon in Saskatoon as part of Saskatchewan's Agriculture Week celebrations. Each year, the Champion Award honours an individual who has made significant contributions to promoting agriculture and helping the public better understand food production.
Cherilyn Jolly-Nagel is widely known as a farmer, agriculture advocate, public speaker, and corporate director. Throughout her career, she has worked to explain modern farming practices to people who may have little connection to agriculture.
Raised near Mossbank, Saskatchewan, Jolly-Nagel returned to farming as a fourth-generation producer. Today, she farms alongside her husband, David, and their family. Their operation grows several crops, including canola, durum wheat, lentils, and chickpeas.
According to Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan, Jolly-Nagel has consistently served as a trusted voice for agriculture. Through speaking engagements, media appearances, and educational initiatives, she has helped bridge the gap between farmers and consumers.
“We’re incredibly proud to recognize Cherilyn for all the work she does to translate agriculture to people not familiar with farming,” said Clinton Monchuk, Executive Director of FFC SK. “She helps bring the story of Canadian agriculture closer to the consumers who depend on it every day.”
Jolly-Nagel has also made history as the first woman elected president of the Western Canadian Wheat Growers Association. During her leadership, she represented farmers on important issues such as transportation, trade, government policy, and public confidence in agriculture.
Beyond her work in farm organizations, she has contributed to several boards and advisory groups. Her leadership experience includes service with SaskPower, the Saskatchewan Agri-Value Initiative, the Saskatchewan Transportation Company, and the Canadian National Railway Agriculture Advisory Council.
Over the years, she has worked closely with Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan to help farmers improve communication with the public. These efforts have focused on sharing accurate information about food production, farming practices, and agricultural innovation.
As a keynote speaker, moderator, emcee, and media contributor, Jolly-Nagel regularly addresses audiences both inside and outside the agriculture industry. Her presentations often explore topics such as agricultural technology, food production, international trade, sustainability, and the relationship between farmers and consumers.
Her influence extends beyond Canada. As an International Director with the Global Farmer Network, she collaborates with farmers and agricultural leaders from around the world. In this role, she advocates for agriculture, technology adoption, and stronger farmer representation in global discussions about food systems.
Jolly-Nagel's contributions have earned her numerous recognitions. She has been named one of Canada's Top 50 Most Influential People in Agriculture and one of Saskatchewan's Most Influential Women. She has also received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal and an Agricultural IMPACT Award.
In 2025, she was selected as a Nuffield Canada Scholar. Her research focuses on understanding how renewable energy infrastructure can influence agricultural land values and farm productivity.
Supporters say her ability to communicate complex agricultural topics in a clear and approachable way has made her a respected leader across the industry. Nominators praised her commitment to sharing facts, personal experience, and practical examples that help people better understand Canadian agriculture.
“Cherilyn Jolly Nagel has been a tireless leader and advocate in agriculture and technology for decades,” said Daryl Fransoo, Chairman of the Western Canadian Wheat Growers and one of the nominators for the award. “Cherilyn’s communication approach and style is welcoming, couched in facts and experience, and has been referenced as the gold standard amongst notable professionals. She is a proven Champion and beyond deserving of this award.”
Industry leaders also highlighted her efforts to connect farmers, businesses, government organizations, and consumers. By sharing real-world stories from the farm, she has helped demonstrate how Canadian producers work to grow food responsibly and sustainably.
Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan said presenting the award during the International Year of the Woman Farmer made the recognition especially meaningful. The organization noted that Jolly-Nagel's leadership, advocacy, and dedication to agricultural education continue to reflect its mission of helping people understand food and farming.
“Cherilyn is a true friend of our industry who works to bridge farmers, industry and government like no one else,” said Darcy Pawlik, CEO of Ag-West Bio and one of the nominators. “We hosted international guests this summer and where Cherilyn shines goes beyond telling people that Canadian ag is sustainable. She gives examples and authentically shares stories that help attendees really understand the journey of farmers.”
The 2026 Champion Award recognizes not only Jolly-Nagel's achievements but also her ongoing commitment to building trust between agriculture and the public. Through her work as a farmer, communicator, and industry leader, she continues to serve as an important ambassador for Canadian agriculture and the farming community.
Photo Credit: farm-food-care-sk