Jul. 14/26 News Print Page

The International Year of the Woman Farmer Showcase at the Calgary Stampede highlights women who are making a difference in Alberta's farming communities. 

Alongside more than 30 Alberta women in agriculture, AFSC Board Chair Kelly Smith-Fraser and 17 AFSC Women in Ag Award winners were featured in this year’s showcase at the Nutrien Western Event Centre on the Stampede grounds. 

For Smith-Fraser, agriculture has always been who she is. Raised on a family farm and surrounded by a close-knit farming community, she learned the values that continue to shape Alberta agriculture: hard work, resilience, collaboration, and a deep commitment to others. After completing university and gaining experience off the farm, she returned home to work alongside her parents, strengthening her connection to both her family and the industry while taking on leadership roles that allowed her to give back to agriculture. 

Throughout her career, Smith-Fraser has balanced family, farming, and industry involvement, including serving on the AFSC Board of Directors. Her practical farming experience and leadership have made her a respected voice in agriculture. Her commitment to agriculture extends to the future, with a strong focus on supporting the next generation and fostering diverse perspectives that will help drive innovation and opportunity across the sector. 

Her inclusion in the 2026 International Year of the Woman Farmer Showcase acknowledges her contributions to agriculture, leadership, and community. Smith-Fraser was joined in the showcase by 17 AFSC Women in Ag award recipients. Their inclusion reflects the important contributions women across Alberta are making as leaders, innovators, advocates, and producers within the agricultural industry. 

AFSC extends its congratulations to all the women featured in this showcase. We are also grateful to Calgary Stampede and Stampede Ag & Western Events for continuing to create space for women in agriculture, celebrate their accomplishments, and highlight the important role they play in shaping the future of our industry. 

The International Year of the Woman Farmer Showcase was on display at the Calgary Stampede in the Nutrien Western Event Centre from July 3 – July 12, 2026. Each year, the Calgary Stampede hosts more than one million visitors, including guests from across Canada and around the world.