National event celebrates innovative farmers shaping Canadian agriculture
Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers (OYF) Program recognized two national winners at its annual event held in Toronto from November 27 to 30, 2025. The program highlights the work of young farmers under 40 who show excellence, leadership, and strong commitment to Canadian agriculture. Each year, finalists from seven regions share their journeys, challenges, and ideas for improving farming in their communities.
This year’s national winners were Ryan and Romy Schill from Ontario and Pierre-Luc Barré and Virginie Bourque from Quebec. Both families were selected for their innovation, dedication to continuous learning, and ability to adapt to changing markets while strengthening their farm businesses.
The Schills operate Circle R Livestock Ltd and Revolution Wool Company in Wallenstein, Ontario. After taking over an older mixed farm, they expanded their sheep flock from 25 to 800 ewes and began lambing year-round to manage risk. They also created a wool business to turn waste wool into valuable products such as yarn, felt, and pillows. Their focus on better genetics, lower costs, and local marketing helped grow their farm sustainably.
In Quebec, Pierre-Luc Barré and Virginie Bourque operate La Ferme Yves Barré Inc in Saint-Damase. The farm has evolved across three generations, producing crops like tomatoes, sweet corn, grain corn, peppers, and onions. When markets shifted, they invested in potato production, expanding from 30 acres to 300 acres and producing 18 million pounds of pre-peeled potatoes. Their long-term goal is to reach 500 acres as land becomes available.
Other regional finalists represented British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario, Quebec, and Atlantic Canada. Their shared stories reflected a common passion for farming, community involvement, and innovation.
OYF President Amy Cronin praised the finalists for representing “excellence, continuous learning, progression, innovation, and sustainability.” Now celebrating 45 years, the OYF Program continues to promote the importance of agriculture and the leadership of young Canadian farmers across the country.
Photo Credit: COYF-winners