Women play a key role on Alberta’s farms, ranches and agribusinesses; however, sometimes their contributions are overlooked.

2025 Women in Ag Award

The AFSC Women in Ag Award acknowledges and honours the passion and commitment of women in agriculture and agribusiness in Alberta. It also celebrates the growing presence of women in this industry. This award showcases the women who are making a difference in agriculture and helping preserve, nurture and transform this ever-changing sector.

The recipients of the Women in Ag award receive a unique AFSC-branded award and a full attendance package for Advancing Women in Agriculture Conference (AWC West), including hotel accommodation.

Award Categories

This year, AFSC will recognize up to nine phenomenal individuals who have made noteworthy contributions to the advancement of women in Alberta’s agriculture and food sector. AFSC will also recognize up to one AFSC team member.

  • The Promoter: Advocates for a deeper understanding of agriculture through education and outreach.
  • The Innovator: Creative solutions to economic, environmental, or social challenges in agriculture.
  • The Community Builder: Unites and strengthens Alberta’s agricultural communities.
  • The Emergent/Rising Star: Passionate leaders under 40 who are making waves.
  • The Professional Leader: Lifelong leadership in agriculture and advancing women in the field.
  • The Operator: The backbone of primary agriculture and agribusiness.
  • The Maverick: Those who push boundaries and inspire change in the industry.
  • The Notable Lifetime Achiever: A lifetime of leadership, mentorship, and industry impact.
  • The Ignitor: Exclusively for AFSC employees, recognizing leaders who drive progress.

 

Selection Process

The AFSC Women in Ag Award recipients are selected by the Women in Ag selection committee. This committee consists of two AFSC representatives (one board member and one employee) and three representatives from our partners (for example, 840 CFCW, Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies, 4-H Alberta).

Each committee member evaluates nominations independently using a scorecard, ensuring a fair and unbiased process. Total scores are calculated and shared prior to a final committee meeting, where the recipient for each award category is decided based on the highest total score and best suited category (if nominated in more than one category).

Nominees will be informed of their nominations in January, with official announcements made in March. Winners will be notified prior to the conference but will remain confidential until the Notables Gala, which takes place March 16, 2025 at the Hyatt Regency in Calgary.

CFCW is the official media partner for the AFSC Women in Ag Award.

Super Country 840 CFCW 70th anniversary logo

Nominations are open: Recognizing Exceptional Women in Ag

Nominations close January 6, 2025.

 

Past winners

The 2024 Women in Ag Award winners

The 2023 Women in Ag Award winners

The 2022 Women in Ag Award winners