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Module 1- Advocacy Through Storytelling
New York, NY was the perfect location to kick off this journey, diving into hands on media and advocacy training. Participants built skills in media and personal strengths training, interview practice with diverse media outlets, emotional intelligence, consumer engagement, and pitching compelling stories. The experience was enriched by visits to Whole Foods for consumer engagement insights, The Wall Street Journal to explore what makes a strong story, Union Square Greenmarket for community connection, and LinkedIn for professional storytelling and advocacy strategies.
My top takeaway from this module was consumer engagement. As a farmer I take pride in growing food for others, but as a wholesaler rarely get to interact with the person buying the food for their family.
Module 2- Advocacy Through Policy
Our next in person meeting was in Washington, DC and began with a visit to Gettysburg for a leadership workshop exploring lessons from leadership past and present. Participants examined how to engage in graceful political conversations, navigate the current political environment, and understand the importance of credibility in effective advocacy. The module also focused on navigating Capitol Hill visits, practicing congressional testimony, understanding the policy process, and exploring top agricultural issues. The experience included a visit to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, offering firsthand insight into policy development and implementation.
My top takeaway, the importance of using your personal experiences when conveying issues to those that create our policies. They may not be knowledgeable on the issue, by using your story the topic can become relatable.
Module 3- Advocacy Through Stakeholder Engagement
The third in person session took participants to Chicago, and centered on finding common ground on emerging issues among stakeholder groups with diverse viewpoints. Participants explored how to prevent major issues before they escalate and learned techniques for proactively addressing issue development. Through interactive activities, including Braver Angels conversations with people holding differing opinions, interview practice, mock scenarios, and conflict management exercises. Participants strengthened their ability to identify shared values, navigate disagreement, and engage stakeholders in constructive, solutions focused dialogue.
My top takeaway from this module, be consistent, and look for shared values whenever issues arise.
Module 4- Global Perspectives
The final in person module took place in South Africa and focused on the global impact of agriculture. Participants explored the challenges and opportunities faced by those outside of the United States, examining both the similarities and differences in agricultural systems worldwide. Through visits to a variety of farms including a dairy, grain, sheep, cattle, corn, and a macadamia nut farm. Participants gained firsthand insight into global agricultural practices and how connected agriculture is across borders.
My top takeaway from this module, recognizing and respecting cultural differences, especially in a global context. Understanding how culture shapes perspectives, and decision making is essential when working together.
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