Liberia Agricultural and Environmental Journalists Network (LAEJN) Promote informed journalism and public engagement on agricultural and environmental nalists Network (LAEJN)
By: Nukanah Kollie
Nairobi, Kenya – As the curtains fell on the 2025 International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) Congress in Nairobi, Kenya, the air was thick with gratitude, laughter, and reflection. Amid cheers, music, and heartfelt tributes, delegates celebrated not only the success of the congress but also the 20th anniversary of one of agricultural journalism’s most transformative initiatives, the IFAJ–Alltech Young Leaders Program.
For Jenn Norrie, Communications Manager at Alltech for North America and Europe, the program represents the very heart of her work. “I always tell everyone my favorite part of my job is the Young Leaders Program,” Norrie said. “I’ve been with Alltech for almost 10 years, and I’m grateful for those who came before me, the people who believed in recognizing and empowering young agricultural journalists around the world.”
Founded in 2005 by Alltech’s late founder Dr. Pearse Lyons and former IFAJ President David Markey, both passionate Irish storytellers, the Young Leaders Program has since supported nearly 200 emerging journalists globally. What began as a small recognition initiative has evolved into a prestigious mentorship and scholarship platform that enables young reporters to attend the annual IFAJ Congress, network with industry experts, and share agricultural stories that inspire change.
“The importance of this program lies in connecting and amplifying agricultural stories from around the world,” Norrie explained. “Alltech provides scholarships that allow young professionals to learn from others, explore innovation in agriculture, and form lifelong professional connections.”
Norrie’s reflections were reiterated by IFAJ President Steve Werblow, who during his closing address recognized Alltech’s two decades of partnership. “If you ever want to know what the future of our industry looks like, get to know the young leaders,” he said. “This program still carries more energy and purpose than ever and that’s largely due to Jenn Norrie, who ensures agricultural journalism stays on the radar at the highest levels of Alltech. We treasure that relationship.”
The congress’s final night also honored outstanding journalists with IFAJ Silver and Gold Medals. Among the recipients were former Young Leader Katie Knapp, who received awards in the technology category and placed second in photography, as well as Philip Katon, Hyrum Corrigan, and Fiona and Tindo, whose work exemplified storytelling excellence and dedication to agricultural reporting.
Convener Aghan Daniel of the Media for Environment, Science, Health and Agriculture (MESHA), who led the local organizing committee, delivered an emotional address that resonated deeply with the audience. Drawing parallels between preaching and journalism, he said:
“I grew up in a Christian family and realized that many undeserving preachers are wealthier than deserving journalists. But agricultural journalism is the kind that gives hope. It changes lives. That is what we celebrate tonight.”
He praised Kenyan and African journalists for their resilience and courage in telling authentic agricultural stories, often against great odds. “Many of you traveled for days to be here,” he said. “That in itself is commitment. Thank you for believing in Africa and for bringing your stories to this continent.”
Aghan Daniel also extended gratitude to the IFAJ Executive, the Ministry of Agriculture, partner organizations, and his own secretariat, whom he likened to a “pencil that endures painful sharpening but ultimately writes beautiful words of hope.” His speech, both poetic and powerful, captured the spirit of collaboration that defined the congress.
Looking Ahead: Unity and Continuity
In his closing reflections, President Werblow said the congress was more than an event, it was a community of storytellers committed to food security, sustainability, and truth. He highlighted the inclusion of new member guilds such as Nigeria and Kyrgyzstan, strengthening IFAJ’s mission to be a truly global network of agricultural communicators.
He concluded by thanking the IFAJ Executive team and special contributors, including volunteers who worked behind the scenes. “The dedication of our colleagues keeps this organization running year-round,” Werblow said. “Their passion for agricultural journalism is what makes IFAJ thrive.”
The congress ended on a celebratory note with the traditional flag handover ceremony, marking the transition from Kenya to Croatia, which will host the next IFAJ Congress in 2026. The Croatian delegation presented symbolic neckties in their national colors, a gesture of friendship and invitation.
A Legacy of Hope and Global Connection
As delegates prepared to depart, one message resonated through the hall: agricultural journalism remains a calling of purpose and resilience. Through programs like the IFAJ–Alltech Young Leaders initiative, new voices continue to rise, connect, and give hope to communities worldwide.
For Jenn Norrie, that hope is what keeps the partnership alive. “Once you’re part of this program, you’re part of a family,” she said. “We’re all connected by the stories we tell, stories that feed the world.”
Luisa Cardoso – São Paulo, Brazil
Luisa Cardoso, a young agricultural journalist and content creator from São Paulo, Brazil, participated in the IFAJ and Alltech Young Leaders Program in Kenya. She described the experience as:
“This has been the most valuable experience of my life covering agribusiness. English is not my first language, so listening, understanding, and translating everything into Portuguese requires a lot of concentration.”
Luisa highlighted the differences in Kenyan agriculture and the value of exchanging knowledge:
“I saw milk and chicken production, which we also have in Brazil, but here it’s done differently. The tea plantations were stunning, like a green ocean. It’s my first experience in African agriculture, and I’m leaving with many stories to share.”
She also emphasized the program’s diversity and inclusivity:
“I wasn’t prepared when I got selected. Here we met people from Canada, Australia, the UK, and Argentina. The group was very friendly and supportive. This experience is unforgettable.”
Keira Miller – Saskatoon, Canada
Kira Miller, a journalist with Saskatoon Media Group, found the program intensive and life-changing:
“It felt like no time at all and also a lifetime. The Young Leaders Program gave me confidence because being chosen among 33 applicants worldwide showed that we were trusted and valued.”
She appreciated the exposure to Kenya’s diverse agriculture:
“Where I come from, agriculture is mostly grain crops. Here, you have livestock, snails, fruits, vegetables, and crops. There’s so much to learn.”
Keira also thanked the sponsors:
“I couldn’t have done this without Alltech and other sponsors. The bursary made it possible for me to travel from Canada.”
At 21, she was likely the youngest participant but found the experience highly enriching:
“This program boosted my confidence, expanded my knowledge, and gave me a perspective I’ll carry forward in my work and life.”
Both Luisa and Keira exemplify the next generation of global agricultural leaders, bridging knowledge, culture, and innovation through international experiences. Their reflections highlight the importance of programs like IFAJ and Alltech’s Young Leaders initiative in shaping informed and confident agribusiness professionals.
