Imagine how your life could be enhanced with a little inspiration, a bit of pertinent information, a few tips on how to handle issues and having the opportunity to network and share stories with like-minded women!
Robin Angell
North America, Australia, New Zealand Crop Protection Product Team – Project Manager, Bayer CropScience, Guelph, ON
Plenary Speaker
Presentation title • Coming soon!
Presentation overview: Coming soon!
Profile:
Robin Angell is the Project Manager for Bayer CropScience’s North America, Australia, and New Zealand Crop Protection Product Team, where she is passionate about developing new ideas and bringing innovative products to market. Earlier roles at Bayer provided her with a solid foundation in market development and regulatory compliance. Robin holds an MSc in Environmental Toxicology and previously led an ecotoxicology lab specializing in soils. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband Wade, and they have recently completed a DIY house renovation. Robin’s last name is pronounced “angel,” like the ones with wings.
Jennifer Angus-Waldron
Environmental Sub Regional Lead Canada, Cargill Limited, London, ON
Sponsor Panel Speaker
Panel Discussion • The agriculture industry is complex and ever-evolving. In the current environment, what strategies can women employ to become effective leaders?
Discussion overview: Reflecting on your career, what shifts have you observed in the realm of female leadership? What are the barriers hindering their progress? Additionally, where do women demonstrate remarkable proficiency, and in what areas do we encounter persistent challenges that require attention?
Profile:
My name is Jennifer Angus-Waldron. In a nutshell, I graduated from the University of Western Ontario, and subsequently teachers’ college, I however, never went on to teach.
I fell into the field of EHS when I tragically lost some co-workers to a workplace incident- this story is life changing. I have been in the field of EHS for over 25 years, most of which time I have been in leadership. I have been blessed to have had some amazing mentors who never saw gender or life stages such as motherhood as a barrier. I have worked for the Provincial Government, and the Private sector alike, in industries from healthcare, to education, to manufacturing and to agriculture.
I have been at Cargill in Canada for 10years, and in that time I have focused primarily on People safety, which has been my passion, but most recently I have jumped over to the Environmental Domain, proving it is never too late to make a change, and make an impact- you don’t need to wait for a life altering event to alter your own path.
I am recently most proud of my membership on a steering committee promoting, mentoring, supporting, and advocating for women in EHS, which has been a predominately male field in this industry together as a team we are finding innovative ways for female leaders to not only be invited to the table, but be heard when they are there.
Beverly Beuermann-King
Workplace Culture and Resiliency Expert, R ‘n’ B Consulting Corp. – Work Smart Live Smart, Little Britain, ON
Plenary Speaker
Presentation title • Transforming Toxicity: Overcome Negativity and Foster Lasting Change
Workshop One:
Workshop title • 7 Ways To Beat Burnout: Without Quitting Your Job
Workshop Two:
Workshop title • Harness Your Energy – Build Your Resilience: Everyday Lessons To De-stress, Decompress and Engage More In Life
Profile:
With an impressive track record spanning over 25 years, Beverly has been guiding individuals and organizations toward mastering their reactions to stress, cultivating a culture of resilience, and achieving thriving, successful lives through her innovative S-O-S Principle™.
As the driving force behind WorkSmartLiveSmart.com since 1995, Beverly has been at the forefront of transforming teams across diverse industries, including healthcare, education, government agencies, finance, and not-for-profit sectors, from overwhelmed to resilient powerhouses. Her presentations, rooted in extensive research and drawing from her background in psychology, sociology, management, and adult education, are both enlightening and inspirational, offering audiences the precise strategies needed to improve mental health, tackle workplace challenges, and amplify overall life satisfaction. Beverly’s influence extends far beyond her captivating speaking engagements. She is a prolific author, esteemed podcaster, and a sought-after media and brand spokesperson, gracing over 500 television and radio shows. Recognized as one of the esteemed Certified Speaking Professionals, a distinction held by less than 70 Canadians, she has also made history as the inaugural Certified Virtual Presenter through eSpeakers and Power Women WorldWide. Prepare to be captivated as Beverly empowers you to conquer stress, cultivate resilience, and unlock the secrets to a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Patricia Catallo
Women in Enterprise Banker, TD Bank, Toronto, ON
Workshop Speaker
Workshop title • The dos and don’ts that can impact your business and personal financial situation
Presentation overview: Join Sarah and Patricia for an interactive session where two experts in their respective field will be interviewed. A banker working with women entrepreneurs and a women champion Certified Financial Planner. They see, every day, situations where we place our business or personal financial situation at risk and they want to share recommendations with you. Plus you’ll have time to ask them questions.
Profile:
Patricia Catallo has been with TD Bank for 15 years, with the last 7 years in Small Business and Agricultural Banking. She is passionate about specifically helping female business owners. She is local to St. Catharines and supports the Niagara Region.
Andrea Chantree
Rural Response Counsellor, Family Transition Place, Orangeville, ON
Workshop Speaker
Workshop title • Why its Your Busine$$: Understanding, Recognizing and Responding to Domestic Violence both in and out of the Workplace
Presentation overview: Learning what to do when domestic violence enters into your life either personally or through your employment.
Profile:
Andrea has been in the Social Services field for 26 years after having graduated a 3 year Child & Youth Worker program at Humber College. She has worked in various schools supporting youth struggling with mental health issues. Andrea has spent the majority of her career working in Domestic Violence and Homeless shelters supporting women and children who have fled abuse. She has worked alongside Social Workers and Child & Youth workers advocating and supporting these families to live lives free of violence. Andrea continues to keep current with her education by attending trainings annually.
For the last 26 years, Andrea has worked with Family Transition Place in various roles. She has worked in the shelter which provided a safe place for women and children fleeing violence to managing the Crisis line that operates 24 hours a day. Andrea currently works in the Rural Response Program providing free, domestic violence services to reduce barriers for women impacted by violence or abuse who reside in rural Dufferin County. Andrea has supported individuals providing crisis counselling, safety planning, abuse education, advocacy, trauma, oppression, separation, grief/ loss, poverty and mental health challenges.
Andrea lives and works in the same community she grew up in. She is very familiar with the barriers women face in a rural community and works to advocate and provide the much needed support women often need but struggle to access. Andrea follows an anti-oppressive and feminist framework and uses a client-centered therapeutic model of support. She draws from the resilience and hopes her clients have to assist and encourage them in moving forward in a life free of oppression. Andrea believes the Rural Response Program is vital to the community and sees this opportunity to educate and advocate for women who are often times feeling hopeless and lost.
Andrea enjoys reading, travelling and sewing and is an animal welfare advocate. She also works part time in her family’s third generation beekeeping business.
Alycia Chrenek, DVM
Associate Director Veterinary Services – Cattle & Equine, Zoetis Canada, Red Deer County, AB
Plenary Speaker
Presentation title • Mind over Chatter: Thoughts Matter
Presentation overview: Our future depends on being a good advocate for the agriculture industry, the mental health of farmers, and understanding the impacts on sustainability. It starts with us. Learning strategies to strengthen our mental fitness and help those around us, will influence the sustainability of our industries.
Profile:
Dr. Alycia Chrenek leads a team of livestock veterinarians across Canada, providing essential support to the livestock industry through information, product support, and insights into industry trends. She graduated with distinction from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) at the University of Saskatchewan and completed a medicine and surgery internship at the University of Melbourne in Australia. After gaining experience at a large referral practice in Western Canada, she joined the Zoetis veterinary team in 2015. Raised on a cow-calf operation in Central Alberta, Dr. Chrenek has always been passionate about horses. She and her husband now raise warmbloods and enjoy raising their two children on the farm, encouraging them to spend as much time outdoors as possible.
Julie Dimitri
National Manager, Women in Enterprise, TD Business Banking, Toronto, ON
Banquet Speaker
Presentation title • Be True to Yourself
Presentation overview: Sourcing from my personal experience in my career as an entrepreneur and now as a leader in a corporation, how has being true to myself impacted my successes. When we hold ourselves back, is it founded on external barriers or deep down on our inability to step out of our comfort zone. Lastly, are we getting the right level of advice when it comes to our business finances but also our personal financial situation.
Profile:
Julie Dimitri holds 20+ years of professional experience. She moved from Montreal to Toronto to open the Ontario operations of the business she had started with two partners in Quebec. Julie’s professional experience spams from business development, leading sales teams, and startup operations. Passionate about professional development, she founded a women’s networking group in her first few years in her new city to grow her network and enable like-minded professional women to grow there’s. Twelve years of her experience has been in sales, offering human resources and talent management services to small to mid-size organizations. Since joining the financial industry, she has been instrumental in empowering sales force to elevate their overall practices, and continues to be known for her coaching skills and drive for results.
Julie lives in mid-town Toronto with her two teenage girls, husband and cat. Passionate about performance, she stays active by boxing and going out for weekly trail runs.
Kathryn Doan
CVO, AgCareers.com, De Lacy Executive Recruitment & Food Grads, Guelph, ON
Plenary Speaker
Presentation title • Understanding Trends in the Agriculture & Food Employment Market To Empower Your Team & Yourself in the Workplace
Presentation overview: Kathryn will share recent HR trends and updates about the current employment market in Agriculture and Food and share how understanding the current market can help to employ your team and yourself.
Profile:
Kathryn Doan is the Chief Vision Officer and business Director of the Talent Solutions Teams, including AgCareers.com, FoodGrads.com, and the De Lacy Executive Recruitment group of businesses. She has been a key member of the team for more than 20+ years. She is passionate about agriculture and food, connecting people, and developing strong relationships in the food value chain to develop strong rural communities.
As a first-generation turkey and crop farmer with her husband and their four girls, Kathryn is focused and committed to growing and developing the career solutions business’ that provides Talent Solutions for individuals, farmers, and agriculture and food businesses locally and across the globe.
Kathryn is an alumnus of the University of Guelph with a bachelor’s degree and Diploma. She also volunteers as Chairperson of the Board of Directors with AgScape, bringing agriculture and food curriculum into the classroom.
Kathryn is a visionary and strategic leader who can picture the vision and future and formulate comprehensive plans for successful business growth. As an innovator, developer, motivator, risk-taker, negotiator, and problem solver, Kathryn stands out in the world of leadership, pushing the boundaries and ensuring the company’s continuous success. Kathryn’s passion is to advocate for farmers, agriculture, and food businesses to connect people to career opportunities in our full value chain.
Dianne Finstad
Moderator/Program Host, Red Deer County, AB
Master of Ceremonies
Profile:
Dianne Finstad used her southern Alberta farm roots to build what’s become a long communications career in television, radio and writing; covering agriculture and rodeo. She’s based in the Red Deer area and is honored to have been part of the AWC family from the start. Dianne serves on the board for Lakeland College, and is a past board member at Westerner Park. Along with Emceeing, announcing and writing stories, you can find Dianne on RFD-TV Canada and The Cowboy Channel Canada with her show called Frontline Farming Canada.
Kalysha Hanrahan
thinkAG Manager, Agriculture in the Classroom Canada, Winnipeg, MB
Breakfast Session
Session title • “Think “Ag”
Session overview: Join this breakfast session to learn of the successful initiatives in encouraging high school students to explore diverse career paths in agriculture, showcasing AITC-C programs and campaigns. By collaborating with universities and industry partners, AITC-C is fostering a new generation of agricultural professionals equipped with the skills and enthusiasm to innovate within the sector. Learn more in this session.
Profile:
Kalysha is a seasoned project manager with more than eight years of experience in the agriculture industry, including two years working with AITC-NL, she was a part of Minister Bibeau’s inaugural Canadian Agriculture Youth Council (2020-2022). Based in Paradise, Newfoundland, the Kalysha is a strong advocate for the importance of agriculture education and looks forward to engaging with a national audience to showcase careers in agriculture and inspire the next generation to get involved.
Keely Horan
Rural Response Counsellor, Family Transition Place, Orangeville, ON
Workshop Speaker
Workshop title • Why its Your Busine$$: Understanding, Recognizing and Responding to Domestic Violence both in and out of the Workplace
Presentation overview: Learning what to do when domestic violence enters into your life either personally or through your employment.
Profile:
Keely has been involved in the social services field since 2002, working in various capacities, such as, Early Childhood, Infant Development, Coping with Substances, Child Welfare, Child and Family Play Therapy ( Psychotherapy), Mental Health and Domestic Violence. Keely follows an anti-oppressive, trauma informed, person-led approach where the person is supported to lead their own care and treated as a person first.
Currently, Keely works with Family Transition Place’s Rural Response Program (RRP) providing free, domestic violence services to reduce barriers for women impacted by violence or abuse who reside in rural Dufferin County. Within this role Keely has supported individuals by providing counselling, case management, safety planning, abuse education, advocacy and systems navigation support.
Keely has a rooted connection with the efforts made by the Rural Response Program. She herself grew up and continues to reside in a rural, farming community, learning very quickly about the barriers that women in rural, isolated, communities face when requiring support. With lived experience, Keely brings a professional and personal passion and insight to her work and approach. She not only seeks to provide equitable services for women in the rural areas (specifically those impacted by abuse and violence) but, aims to empower, strengthen, and educate individuals to find their internal and external wellness and hope.
Keely holds an Under Graduate Degree in Women Studies & Sociology, Early Childhood Education Diploma and Certification in Child and Family Play Therapy and has a Masters of Social Work in process.
Katie Hunter
Talent Solutions Manager, AgCareers.com, Guelph, ON
Workshop Speaker
Workshop title • Career Success Kit: Prepare to find, apply to a job, or transition to a new job once you are employed
Presentation overview: Dive into the career search strategy, how to find the right role, how to apply, things to consider during your application and interview process, questions to ask and more. Katie will share tips for success that will be helpful when looking for a new role or transitioning roles throughout your career.
Profile:
Katie Hunter, an alumnus of the University of Guelph with a degree in Agriculture, is passionate about connecting people to careers in the agricultural and food industry. Katie grew up on a dairy farm and her connection to agriculture fuels her dedication to connecting job seekers and employers within the sector.
Currently serving as the Talent Solutions Manager at AgCareers.com, Katie collaborates closely with employers and job seekers, utilizing her industry acumen to forge meaningful connections.
Katie’s journey in talent acquisition has equipped her with a unique perspective, having successfully engaged with students, job seekers, and employers. In a world where the agricultural and food industry is evolving rapidly, Katie steers individuals towards fulfilling careers that align with their passion and skills. Katie is dedicated to the growth and prosperity of the agriculture community and enjoys talking to an audience about the many opportunities available!
Carol Kinsey Goman, Ph.D.
President, Kinsey Consulting Services, Berkeley, California
Plenary Speaker
Presentation title • The Power of Presence for Women Who Lead
Presentation overview: I help talented professionals build their leadership presence. This session is an overview of what I’ve taught hundreds of female leaders in over 400 international organizations – and what they’ve taught me – about the verbal and non-verbal communication strategies that most powerfully impact the impression we make.
Profile:
Carol Kinsey Goman, Ph.D., helps talented professionals like you build stronger influence and impact skills. She is a sought-after international speaker who has addressed women’s audiences for organizations including Women@Google, Amazon, Ameriprise, Expedia, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Stanford University, CFA Society Vancouver, Women Leaders in Law Enforcement, European Women in Technology, Women at Workday, the Women’s Leadership Conference in Trinidad, and the African Transformational Leadership Summit in Nairobi.
The author of thirteen business books, including her latest, the award-winning “STAND OUT: How to Build Your Leadership Presence,” Carol is a leadership blogger for Forbes, a content expert with the e-learning company, Athena Online, and a faculty member for the Institute for Management Studies. She has just updated her best-selling video course,“Body Language for Leaders and Managers” (which has close to 3 million views) for LinkedIn Learning.
She’s also been a therapist in private practice, a nightclub performer, and a majorette for the 49er football team—but not in that order.
Angela Grant Saunders
Owner/ Director of Beauty & Flavour, Saunders Farm & Saunders Cider, Munster, ON
Plenary Speaker
Presentation title • Creating and Celebrating an Intentional Life in Agriculture
Presentation overview: Do you love what you’re doing? Angela does and will share her journey from Music Teacher to Creative Director and Co-Owner of Saunders Farm, the amazing award-winning Agritourism destination she shares with her husband Mark. From challenges and pivots to new revenue streams and countless memories for her guests, Angela has helped create both a workplace and a life she’s proud of living.
Profile:
Angela Grant Saunders is the Director of Beauty & Flavour at the award-winning Saunders Farm in Munster, Ontario, Canada. She is passionate about cultivating amazing fun, food, and memories with her team, and exceeding guest expectations. With over 25 years in the agritourism industry and a background as a teacher and performer, Angela brings a vibrant energy to all aspects of farm life. Her commitment to creating transformative experiences is reflected in her attention to detail and her belief that laughter is key to making moments extraordinary. She loves working alongside her husband Mark, the original Director of Fun, and she is proud of what they have created together: from the most amazing family farm in the world, to being inducted into the Hall of Fame with NAFDMA (North American Farmer’s Direct Marketing Association), to three brilliant kids following their own paths. Angela’s infectious laughter and quick wit make her a master of creating memories for Saunders Farm’s team and guests.
Nelly Elinam Kurd-Marckay
Quality and Food Safety Manager-West Africa, Bunge, Tema, Greater Accra, Ghana
Plenary Speaker
Presentation title • Embracing Imperfection: The Path to True Success
Presentation overview: In this presentation, Nelly explores the transformative power of letting go of perfectionism and how embracing imperfection can lead to increased productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. By sharing her personal experiences and practical strategies, Nelly aims to inspire and equip individuals to pursue true success in both their personal and professional lives.
Profile:
Nelly Elinam Kurd-Marckay is a seasoned quality professional with over a decade of experience in the food manufacturing industry. As the Quality & Food Safety Manager for Bunge Loders Croklaan Industries in West Africa, she ensures compliance with global standards, implements robust quality systems, and drives continuous improvement across operations. Her expertise spans food safety, quality control, audits, and risk management, showcasing her ability to thrive in dynamic and multicultural environments.
Nelly is the President of Women of Bunge – West Africa, where she champions gender advocacy and empowers women in the industry. Her commitment is evident through her participation in certification and sustainability projects, including achieving Halal, Kosher, and International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC EU) for her organization.
She has spoken at significant events, such as the Ghana Women Entrepreneurship Summit (GWES) on accelerating women-owned businesses for sustainable development, and the UNIDO WACOMP International Cluster Conference on compliance to standards for enhancing clusters’ competitiveness. Additionally, Nelly was part of a team of young leaders designing the thought leadership series on dignified and fulfilling work, organized by the Mastercard Foundation in Rwanda, and has partnered with Catalyste Plus.
An ambitious entrepreneur, Nelly has consulted for companies like Pure and Just Foods and Jenz Consulting Limited to achieve critical ISO certifications. She also owns a natural cosmetics business. Her entrepreneurial spirit and technical insights position her as a transformative leader capable of navigating complex challenges and driving strategic initiatives.
Nelly holds a Master of Science in Food Quality Management and a Degree in Biological Sciences from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology, along with diplomas in financial and business management. She has excellent communication skills, is fluent in English, and is a beginner in French. Her dedication to quality and her passion for empowering women and fostering entrepreneurship make her a remarkable leader and inspiration to many in West Africa.
Le Luong
CEO, Nurture Growth Biofertilizer Inc., Mississauga, ON
Plenary Speaker
Presentation title • Believe in Yourself
Presentation overview: Le will take us on the entrepreneurial journey of a female co-founder of a biofertilizer company. She has consistently demonstrated a track record of success throughout her career, excelling in various leadership roles and earning recognition for her outstanding achievements and contributions. How did she do it? Join in the conversation!
Profile:
Le is a dynamic and accomplished business professional with a diverse background in strategic planning, marketing, sales, and business management. Throughout her career, she has consistently demonstrated a track record of success, excelling in various leadership roles and earning recognition for her outstanding achievements and contributions. Le has been honored with prestigious awards such as the Mississauga Board of Trade’s Businessperson of the Year, Registered Professional Accountant Women’s Entrepreneur Award, and Innovation Guelph Pitch Competition winner. Currently serving as the CEO of Nurture Growth Biofertilizer, Le’s company has also garnered accolades, including the MBOT Environment Sustainability Award and the OSEA Green Energy Doors Open Award. Furthermore, her entrepreneurial prowess has been acknowledged by Disruption Magazine, which featured her start-up as one to watch.
With a strong emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and strategic vision, Le continues to drive growth and create a meaningful impact across various industries. Additionally, she generously lends her expertise as a member of the advisory boards for several start-up companies.
When not immersed in her professional endeavors, Le dedicates her spare time to volunteering with organizations that focus on resettling refugees, developing leadership within the Vietnamese community, and promoting Vietnamese culture. Her philanthropic efforts have garnered attention, with features in renowned publications such as Toronto Life’s 50th Anniversary Edition, the Toronto Star, and The Guardian.
Anne Miner
President, The Dunvegan Group, Woodstock, ON
Workshop Speaker
Workshop title • Three Keys to Leadership Success: Self-Awareness, Courage and Communications. Master all three with the Platinum Rule.
Presentation overview: The Platinum Rule, “Treat Others The Way They Want To Be Treated” is far more effective than the Golden Rule we were all taught. Participants in this workshop, will complete a complimentary self-assessment to identify their own profile, learn how to identify the profile of others and how to adapt your behaviour to build better relationships.
Profile:
Anne Miner is an International Speaker, Best-Selling Author, and Business Owner. She’s a confident leader. Her proven ability to bring calm to chaos, success to failures, and solutions to problems weave together seamlessly to define her executive charm as the President of The Dunvegan Group and Principal at The Osborne Group.
Since 1987, Anne’s trusted expertise in business excellence and customer retention have made her a highly-respected woman of influence. But it is her ability to use her deeply-rooted values, unwavering determination, and array of experiences that attracts many who seek her professional guidance.
It is Anne’s experiences, and her valuable perspective on life that have attracted audiences to her candid, motivating, and genuinely comforting speaking engagements at workshops, seminars and conferences. She has empowered many “to go over, under, around, or through the obstacles on any path… and to be courageous in pursuing dreams.”
Anne brings the experience of a variety of roles to bear on her speaking assignments:
- Principal at The Osborne Group
- Founder and CEO of The Dunvegan Group
- Principal at The Osborne Group
- Business Coach and Mentor
- Certified Trainer of the Platinum Rule®
- Author of three books and co-author of Amazon Best-Seller, “Succeeding in Spite of Everything!”
- Chair, Toronto Chapter of the International Women’s Forum, Canada
Anne weaves anecdotes and humor into her spirited presentations ensuring the audience will be engaged, uplifted, entertained, and inspired! No wonder she was awarded the University of Guelph’s Alumni Achievement Award and the International Women’s Forum of Canada’s Luminary Award!
Meghan Pedros
Business Program Manager, Banker Confidence, Customer & Colleague Engagement Strategy, TD Business Banking, Oakville, ON
Workshop Speaker
Workshop title • Show up and STAND OUT!
Presentation overview: Confidence gives us courage, resilience, motivation and a belief in our own ability to succeed. In this guided workshop, you’ll learn tips and tricks on how to build confidence and enhance your personal brand so you can show up, stand out and achieve your full potential.
Profile:
Meghan Pedros is a career-oriented wife, hockey mom, marathoner, mentor and brand ambassador with a passion for developing others through inspiration, mentorship and integrity. With her almost two decade career with TD, she has held a series of progressive roles in Retail, Direct Channels, Wealth Management and Human Resources, to name a few. Having led several leadership development programs across the bank, Meghan holds a strong passion for inspiring and developing others to maximize their full potential in any role they acquire. In her current role as National Manager, Business Banking Programs, Meghan leads the diversity sourcing and recruitment strategy for our Associate Programs across Canada while continuing to play an active role in supporting Women in Leadership initiatives both internally and externally.
Rebecca Posthumus
In the Know Program Coordinator, Canadian Mental Health Association Ontario, Stirling, ON
Workshop Speaker
Workshop title • Stocking Your Mental Health Toolbox
Special Sunday Session:
Session title • In The Know
Profile:
Rebecca is the Program Coordinator for In the Know with Agriculture Wellness Ontario (AgWO) at the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) – Ontario Division. Rebecca is a University of Guelph grad having her B.A. Sc, Majoring in Child, Youth and Family Development. She also holds her Development Service Worker and Social Service Worker diplomas from Loyalist College. She grew up surrounded by agriculture, her family owns and operates JP Dairy Systems, which services, sells and installs dairy systems and other farm equipment. Rebecca grew up in the 4-H program and is currently a 4-H Volunteer in Hastings County. Rebecca has previously worked in front line human services. She is excited to be able to support the agricultural community utilizing her passion for mental health literacy.
Kristin J. Pronschinske
Business Consultant, NuVue Consulting, River Falls, Wisconsin
Plenary Speaker
Presentation title • Generational Communications
Presentation overview: Ever wonder why how each generation has difficulties talking with other generations? This presentation will discuss how each generation grew up and the why’s and how’s of communicating with each generation.
Profile:
Kristin grew up on a dairy farm in Western Wisconsin where she was heavily involved with the family business. Starting at eight years of age, Kristin was found in the dairy show rings showing her Holsteins and judging dairy competitions for 4-H and FFA. Kristin attended the University of Wisconsin – River Falls and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing Communications with an Agricultural Emphasis, a Master of Science in Agricultural Education with an Extension option, and an MBA. Kristin also received a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership from Colorado State University where she is also a Distinguished Scholar. Kristin holds an International Advanced Leadership certification from the University of Stockholm – Sweden Executive School.
Kristin Pronschinske is a Business Consultant with NuVue Consulting. She has a passion for people, training, coaching, developing employees and strategic business growth. Kristin’s career expands from developing new business markets and territories, managing sales teams, developing and executing corporate strategies and international business. Additionally, she has coached and trained sales teams and leadership development across North America.
Kristin resides close to the Twin Cities of Minneapolis/St. Paul where she is heavily involved with her community. She currently serves as President to the UW – River Falls’ College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences Alumni Board, and Vice President to the Board of Directors for Basics for Local Kids. Kristin enjoys spending time with her Family, traveling, skiing, snowshoeing, motorcycling, golfing and being active with her dairy genetic business.
Marla Rice
Partner, Bossy Nagy Group, Tillsonburg, ON
Workshop Speaker
Workshop title • Succession & Estate Planning: Taking a step forward
Workshop overview: Succession and estate planning is a journey made of many steps and gathering your information together is a crucial one. In our interactive workshop, we will discuss how to determine your net worth and create a legacy binder as part of setting the foundation for fair and thoughtful estate distribution.
Profile:
Marla Rice became a partner at BNG Bossy Nagy Group in 2016 after working with the firm since 1997. With her years in public accounting and business advisory services, Marla leads BNG’s team of accounting professionals towards excellence in client service by setting and supporting BNG’s standards. She provides a full range of accounting services and takes a pragmatic, solutions-focused approach to clients facing complex accounting and business challenges.
Clients attest to Marla’s patience, and her innate ability to explain things, without complicated jargon, to help them easily understand things. She is responsive and goes the extra mile to remember as many details as possible about each client’s business or situation as she truly cares about them and their success. Client service is of upmost importance to Marla; she is dedicated to having answers to clients’ questions, alleviating their worries, and, ultimately, simplifying their lives. Marla strives to be the first person they think to reach out to when they need tax or accounting support.
Marla is active in the community, currently acting as chair of the CAFA (Canadian Association of Farm Advisors) Woodstock, Mid-West Chapter. She has also donated her time in the past to the Tillsonburg Ringette Association and formerly Girl Guides of Canada, St. Paul’s United Church and the Tillsonburg chapter of Ontario’s Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Keisha Rose
R.A. Rose and Sons, East Point Potato, President of The Prince Edward Island Federation of Agriculture, Lakeville, PEI
Panel Speaker
Panel Discussion • Leaders on the Land
Profile:
Keisha Rose works on her Family’s 6th generation Potato farm, R.A Rose and Sons Ltd, and at Family-owned Potato packing facility, East Point Potato, in Eastern Kings, PEI. Graduated from University of Prince Edward Island in 2013 with a Bachelor of Business Administration. Raised in North Lake, and still lives there today with her Husband and two little girls, Mae and Tilly. Keisha has been on the Board of Directors of the Prince Edward Island Federation of Agriculture since 2017 and now sits as the President of the Board since 2023.
Kimberly Runge
Director, Crop Nutrients Canada, Parrish & Heimbecker Ltd., Weyburn, SK
Sponsor Panel Speaker
Panel Discussion • The agriculture industry is complex and ever-evolving. In the current environment, what strategies can women employ to become effective leaders?
Discussion overview: Reflecting on your career, what shifts have you observed in the realm of female leadership? What are the barriers hindering their progress? Additionally, where do women demonstrate remarkable proficiency, and in what areas do we encounter persistent challenges that require attention?
Profile:
Proudly from the prairies, growing up and currently residing in southern Saskatchewan I embarked on my career in Agriculture 28 years ago. Starting from ground level, in a wooden elevator in small town in Saskatchewan which eventually led me to my current role as Director of Crop Nutrients Canada for Parrish & Heimbecker, Ltd. I have spent my time in between then and now working in various facets of the grain industry, achieving a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Regina and have enjoyed the last 15 years in retail fertilizer marketing managing logistics, procurement and sales. My motivation is driven by the fact that each season brings on new challenges, presenting opportunities to creatively drive the business and provide innovative solutions for both customers and P&H to successfully provide returns. There is nothing more rewarding and tranquil than watching the fields of green turn to gold and hearing the hum of combines in the distance.
Erica Sayles
Program Outreach Coordinator, Canadian Mental Health Association- Ontario Division: Agriculture Wellness Ontario, Stratford, ON
Workshop Speaker
Workshop title • Stocking Your Mental Health Toolbox
Special Sunday Session:
Session title • In The Know
Profile:
Erica is the In The Know Program Outreach Coordinator with Agriculture Wellness Ontario (AgWO) at the Canadian Mental Health Association – Ontario Division. She holds a BA in Agriculture from the University of Guelph and was a passionate Class President and Vice President of the Student Federation of the Ontario Agricultural College. She comes from a lifetime in the Dairy Industry where she has worked in animal nutrition, software sales and support, and on the family farm where she has spent her fair share of time doing chores, marketing genetics, and preparing show animals for competition. She has also spent time participating and engaging in her local 4-H organization and the Paris Fair Board. Her passion for agriculture and the wellbeing of those in it has a chance to shine with her role at AgWO.
Sarah Seguin
Women in Enterprise Banker and Certified Women Champion Financial Planner, TD Bank, Toronto, ON
Workshop Speaker
Workshop title • The dos and don’ts that can impact your business and personal financial situation
Presentation overview: Join Sarah and Patricia for an interactive session where two experts in their respective field will be interviewed. A banker working with women entrepreneurs and a women champion Certified Financial Planner. They see, every day, situations where we place our business or personal financial situation at risk and they want to share recommendations with you. Plus you’ll have time to ask them questions.
Profile:
Sarah Seguin, As a Senior Private Banker, Business Owners with TD Wealth Private Banking, Sarah understands the often-complex needs associated with Business Owners’ busy lifestyle, the demands of managing their business, and growing their personal wealth. Sarah provides personalized and custom banking solutions for their complex needs with detailed, flexible and timely service, and works closely with key collaborators across TD to help build net worth, implement tax-efficient strategies, protect what matters, and leave a legacy. With nearly two decades of comprehensive retail banking expertise across Southwestern Ontario, Sarah’s experience has spanned diverse markets and encompassed a variety of roles within the retail banking sector, cultivating her ability to deliver exceptional client experiences.
Julie Thurgood-Burnett
President + CEO, Hereward Farms Inc., East Garafraxa, ON
Plenary Speaker
Presentation title • Growing Wildy: My Own Path
Presentation overview: Transitioning from a marketing maven to a lavender farmer and beauty and home line entrepreneur, she has harnessed her skills in branding and storytelling to cultivate a sustainable, thriving business at Hereward Farms. Her journey has been fueled by a passion for nature, creativity, and a commitment to producing all-natural, Canadian-made products that resonate with the community.
Profile:
Julie Thurgood-Burnett, the Founder and CEO of Hereward Farms, transitioned from a marketing expert to a lavender aficionado, uncovering her genuine calling and establishing a successful enterprise. Her story is like a modern-day fairy tale, evolving from a career in marketing to a prosperous award-winning lavender farmer in just four years. Her journey is unique, revealing a new career path and her true life’s calling (whether she knew it or not).
What started as a modest dream of planting 40 lavender plants on their vast 250-acre farm, has blossomed into a fragrant paradise. Julie’s venture now boasts 6,000 lavender plants and a stunning 400,000 sunflowers. But Julie’s ambitions don’t stop at farming and agritourism. She has successfully launched a line of all-natural skincare and home products, a testament to her hard work and entrepreneurial spirit, which has garnered recognition in prestigious publications like Vogue and Vanity Fair.
Julie’s leadership is defined not just by her achievements in beauty and agriculture but also by her strong values. She is deeply committed to sustainability, fostering community, and empowering others. Julie exemplifies that with determination and passion, dreams can flourish immensely, much like lavender fields.
Amy VanderHeide
Owner/Operator, Moutain Base Farm and Coldbrook Farms Ltd, Coldbrook, NS
Panel Speaker
Panel Discussion • Leaders on the Land
Profile:
Amy calls the beautiful and diverse landscape of the Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia home. She farms full time with her husband and in-laws on their poultry and crop farm, Coldbrook Farms Ltd. She and her husband James, also own a small cow/calf farm, Mountain Base Farm. They have 3 sons, ages 10, 12, and 16.
Growing up, Amy was very intent on spending as much time with her aunts and grandmother on the family’s beef farm as much she possibly could. She didn’t realize until she was grown and making her own path in the agriculture world, just how rare a farm operated by women was. Growing up with those women as role models has been a huge inspiration in her drive to champion for women in agriculture.
In 2015, she co-founded the Maritime Ag Women’s Network, which connects women in all areas of agriculture and farming throughout the Maritimes. The group now exceeds 1000 members and involves all areas of agriculture. Topics of discussion include everything from serious topics of farm transition, taxes, and mental health to searching out juggling children and farm lives, finding women’s work wear and celebrating the small victories with each other.
Amy is very active in her community. She is a 4H leader and member of her children’s School Advisory Committee, Chair of Chicken Farmers of Nova Scotia, and Chair of the Poultry Emergency Response Preparedness Committee and Director of Atlantic Poultry Inc. She is also a past Director Do More Ag Foundation.
Lauren Van Ewyk
CEO, National Farmer Mental Health Alliance, Courtright, ON
Plenary Speaker
Presentation title • Break The Cycle: How To Create Meaning Relationships
Workshop Speaker
Workshop title • The Advice You Likely Didn’t Receive: Connecting in the Back 40
Profile:
Lauren Van Ewyk is a sheep farmer, registered social worker, foster mom and agricultural mental health advocate. She has appeared in numerous radio, television and print articles concerning the issues of mental wellness and mental health in the agriculture sector. She is a PhD student at the University of Guelph in the School of Environmental Design and Rural Development (SEDRD). As a founding member and CEO of the National Farmer Mental Health Alliance, Lauren is committed to partnering with professionals to become culturally informed in their care for rural members.
Tracy VanPuymbroeck
Partner, Bossy Nagy Group, Tillsonburg, ON
Workshop Speaker
Workshop title • Succession & Estate Planning: Taking a step forward
Workshop overview: Succession and estate planning is a journey made of many steps and gathering your information together is a crucial one. In our interactive workshop, we will discuss how to determine your net worth and create a legacy binder as part of setting the foundation for fair and thoughtful estate distribution.
Profile:
Having graduated into progressively senior roles since joining BNG Bossy Nagy Group in 2006, Tracy became the most recent partner of the firm in 2018. Tracy takes great pride in providing accounting services to BNG’s valued clients, working with them to build better businesses. She boasts a special concentration on reliance engagements, including family business succession planning, estate planning and reorganizations. Having grown up and worked on her family’s tobacco farm, Tracy has first-hand knowledge of the intricacies of running a family farm.
Tracy is also an active member of her community, occupying the treasurer position with the Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital Foundation and serving in her current role as Chair for STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners) Southwestern Ontario Chapter.
Kendra Wack
Kendra Wack, Executive Director of FEAD (Female Entrepreneurs in Agri-Food Development), Founder of Degree Three Communications, Saskatoon, SK
Workshop One:
Workshop title • The Dollars and Cents – Growing Financial Literacy for Beginners
Workshop Two:
Workshop title • Communications for Conflict – Strategizing through Sticky
Profile:
Kendra Wack is the Executive Director of FEAD (Female Entrepreneurs in Agri-Food Development) and Founder of Degree Three Consultancy. She was raised on a multi-generation mixed farming operation in West-Central Saskatchewan, where she learned the value of hard work. Kendra obtained her Bachelor of Education, and is the youngest on record to achieve a Master of Business Administration from the University of Saskatchewan. Kendra is a successful executive, multi-business entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in for-profit and not-for-profit organizations. Her industry experience spans dental, education, government, technology, bio-technology, agriculture, food, environmental, engineering, creative, service, and retail sectors. Kendra has led her own and countless other businesses through ideation, market entry, acquisition, strategic exits, as well as change and project management. Kendra prioritized the important of strategic analysis, and values by implementing functional systems for personal, organizational and team sustainability.
Sharon Wright
Manager and Co-Owner – WFF; Instructor – CNA, Wright’s Family Farm (WFF); College of the North Atlantic (CNA), Pasadena, NL
Panel Speaker
Panel Discussion • Leaders on the Land
Profile:
My journey began on a family farm in Thorndale, Ontario where I was an active 4-H member before heading off to the Ontario Agriculture College (OAC 90). While at OAC, I met my husband Andy and together we have raised 2 daughters and chased our dreams around Ontario and then to Newfoundland. We now live in Pasadena, NL where we own Wright’s Family Farm, a berry and vegetable farm that includes upick and a busy on-farm market. Since 2019, I have been an instructor in the Agriculture Technician program at the College of the North Atlantic in Corner Brook, NL. This is the first agriculture education program offered within the province. I also serve as Chair of the Steering Committee for AITC-NL, Manager of the Fruit and Vegetable Growers of NL, and Vice-Chair of a non-profit organization that operates a Daycare Centre and Senior’s Cottages in the town of Pasadena.
The first part of my career was spent in the feed industry in Ontario: facing the challenge of a young woman calling on dairy farms with ideas of better feed and feeding programs to more of a management role in a feed dealership later. In that time there was a 4-year “break” to start our family. Having never travelled past Eastern Ontario, a career change found us moving to Newfoundland for an “adventure”. In 2006 I joined the provincial government working in agriculture business programming and later managing Agriculture Extension Services.
In 2014, an opportunity came along that would see our family sell everything we owned to fulfill our dream of farm ownership. While we both had backgrounds and educations in agriculture, our focus was always livestock , so our learning curve was steep with a fruit and vegetable operation! The farming business has not been without struggles: we hired staff, bought equipment, wanted/needed to expand, learned to live with mental health struggles, lost my government job and realized that we weren’t ready to give up the off-farm income. I have returned to work off-farm doing something I never thought I would do – teaching!
Julie Wynette
President, Brenwyn Farms Ltd., Tavistock, ON
Panel Speaker
Panel Discussion • Leaders on the Land
Profile:
Julie is a third-generation egg farmer with a passion for bridging the gap between farm and consumer. Alongside her husband and two young boys, she manages their family farm while also assisting with the operation of her parents’ chicken barn. In addition to egg farming, Julie helps with their Hop Company which supplies the ingredient to the craft beer industry. Julie is active in her rural community, where she volunteers and takes every opportunity to share her farming knowledge to promote transparency and understanding between producers and consumers. Her hobbies include growing cut flowers, watching the Toronto Blue Jays and Maple Leafs and spending time with her friendly farm dog, Birdie.