Eighteen emerging leaders selected for Ontario’s Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program
The Rural Ontario Institute (ROI) is proud to announce the selection of 18 emerging leaders from across Ontario for Class 21 of the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP). Set to begin their leadership journey in August 2025, these participants represent diverse sectors of Ontario’s agri-food and rural communities.
The AALP is a prestigious program designed to foster leadership in the agricultural sector, promoting skills that will benefit participants and the industries they represent. Class 21 members come from various fields, including livestock, horticulture, media, grain, and agri-business. They range in age from 29 to 60 and are united by their commitment to positive change and leadership excellence in agriculture.
“Congratulations to the selected Class 21 participants,” said Gabrielle Ferguson, ROI Leadership Programs Director. “You are about to embark on a transformative leadership journey—one that will challenge you to reflect deeply and grow into the leader you are meant to be. In today’s complex global environment, strong leadership is more important than ever to ensure the continued success and resilience of Ontario’s agri-food sector.”
Class 21 members will take part in a series of seminars, webinars, study tours—both North American and international—and group projects focused on agriculture, food, and rural communities. These activities are designed to build both practical skills and the critical self-analysis needed for effective leadership.
The program has been instrumental in shaping the future of Ontario’s agriculture, with over 540 alumni already contributing to the sector’s growth. Supporting partners, including the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness and the Ontario Ministry of Rural Affairs, back the program’s success.
AALP Class 21 Participants:
“Our government appreciates the input of Ontario’s world-class agricultural leaders as we continue to create the right conditions for the growth of our $51 billion agri-food industry,” said Trevor Jones, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. “We are proud to support opportunities in experiential education and leadership development like those provided by the prestigious Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program. I commend the participants of Class 21 for their commitment to agriculture leadership excellence and wish them well in their careers.”
The AALP continues to cultivate the next generation of leaders ready to shape the future of Ontario’s agri-food and rural sectors.
Photo Credit: roi-logo