The CFWF - Canadian Farm Writers' Federation recently held our annual meeting. Here's an excerpt from my president's report:
Why do you belong to your regional farm writer association, CFWF - Canadian Farm Writers' Federation (CFWF) and the IFAJ - International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ)? Seriously – take a moment to consider that question.
A common question when recruiting members for any organization, or in discussions about what could change within a group, is “what do you offer me?”
Networking? Professional development? Press card from our international federation? Career opportunities? Drinks in the hospitality suite? All are among valuable benefits of membership.
I find I often want to reply to queries about what a group offers with, “what are you prepared to give?”
During my years of involvement with Atlantic Canada Farm Writers’ Association (ACFWA), CFWF, IFAJ and other groups, I’ve found the greatest benefits come from getting involved and volunteering. I’ve gained valuable skills that I use daily in my professional life. I’ve advanced my career as people got to know me and my work acumen.
There’s a multitude of volunteer opportunities within regional farm writer associations, CFWF and IFAJ, many of them related to professional development, regionally, nationally, internationally and online. If you are interested in volunteering, reach out to me.
In addition to volunteer opportunities, what else does your regional farm writer group, CFWF and IFAJ offer you? The list is long.
There’s professional development, writing (journalism and communications), broadcast and photography contests at reduced rates and access to local, national and international farm media tours. Plus, from within our members, there are employers looking to hire, contractors searching for markets, experts prepared to consult, mentors ready to offer advice, friends to bounce ideas off of and lifelong relationships.
But you're not going to find any if these activities by sitting back and wondering about them.
The best way to access specific benefits within our membership is to get out and attend events in person – whether that’s a regional association event, at the national level or on the world stage. Talk to people. Share your contact info. Be open to the opportunities that may present themselves. And, if you’re inspired by a volunteer opportunity, seize it and contribute.
The strength of regional farm writer groups, CFWF and IFAJ and the benefits of membership comes from us – the members. The community we build through our shared profession and passion of writing about agriculture is our superpower. Your involvement in the abundance of opportunities these groups offer strengthens our organization, yes, but at the end of the day, you are the biggest winner, both professionally and personally.
That’s what your regional farm writer association, CFWF and IFAJ gives to you.
Now, what can you offer in return?
