Agriculture is changing quickly and the need for strong, adaptable leaders has never been greater.

The RBC Foundation is supporting the development of Lakeland College’s Ag Leadership Academy, which will equip students with the leadership skills needed to navigate the increasingly complex realities of Canada’s agriculture sector.

“Agriculture needs young people who are ready to step into leadership roles and help shape the future of the industry,” says Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, Lakeland College president and CEO. “This investment from RBC Foundation will help us give students the opportunity to intentionally develop those skills while they are still at Lakeland. They’ll graduate with not only the technical and agricultural knowledge their careers require, but also the confidence and leadership skills to make an impact.”

The Ag Leadership Academy will provide a structured framework to complement the leadership experience Lakeland’s agricultural sciences students already gain through student-managed initiatives, clubs and other hands-on opportunities. The academy will combine workshops, mentorship, experiential learning and practical application to build skills in communication, conflict resolution, decision-making, financial stewardship, problem-solving and team leadership.

"The future of Canadian agriculture depends on young leaders who can navigate complexity with confidence, and RBC is committed to helping them get there,” says Anshita Rai, RBC regional vice president, Alberta Central. “Through the Agriculture Leadership Academy, we're investing in students who will step into leadership roles on farms, in businesses, and across their Alberta communities—equipped with the skills to lead an industry that feeds our nation."

Unlike a general leadership program, the Ag Leadership Academy will explore leadership through an agricultural lens. Students will work through real-world scenarios and examples drawn from farming operations, agribusinesses, producer organizations, rural communities and agricultural advocacy groups. The academy will be co-developed and facilitated by external experts, Lakeland alumni and Lakeland’s Students’ Association, ensuring the program remains practical, relevant and connected to the realities of the agriculture industry.

“By investing in our students early in their careers, this academy will help create a pipeline of agricultural leaders prepared to lead businesses, strengthen rural communities, contribute to industry and drive innovation across this vital sector,” says Dr. Wainwright-Stewart.