Applications open for 2020 IFAJ-Alltech Young Leaders in Agricultural Journalism Award

The International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) has opened the application process for the 2020 IFAJ-Alltech Young Leaders in Agricultural Journalism Award. Each of IFAJ’s 53-member guilds may submit one nominee for the prestigious award, which recognises outstanding young journalists who demonstrate great potential to become leaders in the agricultural journalism industry.

Ten young journalists - age 35 or younger by December 31, 2019 - are selected by an international jury for the prize, which includes a travel stipend to attend the 2020 IFAJ Congress June 24-28 in Vingsted, Denmark. The Young Leaders will participate in a boot camp in the days prior to congress, which includes farm visits, professional development and networking workshops the Vingsted area.

“The importance of strong journalism in communicating the truth of agriculture cannot be overstated,” said Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech. “At Alltech, we believe in nurturing talent, and we are proud to support the next generation of journalists who are passionate about sharing the real stories of those who work tirelessly to feed a Planet of Plenty.”

IFAJ president Owen Roberts added, “The young leaders' program has proven to be a difference maker for IFAJ. Many of our member guilds are now led by former program participants, who immersed themselves in the boot camp experience then took their enthusiasm and energy for agricultural journalism leadership back to their home countries. Alltech's partnership and vision for this program has unquestionably made a difference in the vitality of our member guilds and in the future of IFAJ itself.”

The application is available online and must be completed by February 7, 2020. Those applications will be forwarded to each applicant’s guild; each guild will select its nominee and submit their application by February 21, 2020. Applications must include three samples of work. Nominees must be willing to attend the 2020 IFAJ Congress and Young Leaders boot camp, which will be conducted in English.

The IFAJ-Alltech Young Leaders Award in Agricultural Journalism was established in 2006 in partnership with the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists and Alltech to recognise future leaders in agricultural journalism and communications from around the world. For more information, visit ifaj.org.