Prairieland Youth Leadership Conference #youlead (Image Credit: Prairieland Park)

By Prairieland Park

Prairieland Youth Leadership Conference Awards $12,000 in Scholarships

Feb 17, 2026 | 12:01 PM

The future of agriculture took centre stage February 7–8, 2026, as 38 young leaders gathered at Prairieland for the 17th annual Prairieland Youth Leadership Conference. The two‐day event is designed to build confidence, communication skills, and leadership capacity among Saskatchewan’s emerging ag advocates while they compete for scholarships.

This year’s theme, “Lead Out Loud,” encouraged participants to find their voice and learn how to share the story of agriculture in meaningful and impactful ways. Throughout the conference, 4-H members engaged in hands‐on leadership activities, team challenges, and communication-focused workshops aimed at building practical, real‐world skills.

A highlight of the weekend was feature presenter Evan Shout, speaker, storyteller, and host of the Growing the Future podcast. Shout worked closely with participants to explore the power of storytelling through modern communication platforms, demonstrating how tools like podcasting and digital media can help agriculture connect with wider audiences.

Attendees were guided through the process of shaping their own messages using contemporary communication tools to amplify their voices.

Participants then applied their learning through a dynamic group challenge, developing and presenting their own podcast‐style projects. Teams were evaluated on creativity, clarity, and communication, showcasing their ability to think critically and collaborate effectively. All competitors were assessed across three areas: their application, their pre‐conference assignment, and their participation throughout the event. Eight judges supported the evaluation process over the weekend.

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The conference concluded with the presentation of $12,000 in scholarships, recognizing outstanding leadership, engagement, and communication skills. Here are the results:

First place and a $4,500 scholarship

Madison Ley, Kerrobert Multiple 4-H Club

Second place and a $3,000 scholarship

Owen Guest, Blazing Saddles 4-H Club

AWARDS $12,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS

Third place and a $2,500 scholarship

Ken Hougham, Hillmond 4-H Club

Fourth place and a $1000 scholarship

Jory LaBatte, 4-H Sask Next Step Club

Fifth place and a $1,000 scholarship

Vanessa Charko, Carrot River Light Horse/Moose Range Beef Club

Prairieland is proud to support youth in agriculture and extends sincere thanks to the volunteers, judges, staff, and sponsors who helped make this inspiring leadership experience possible. The Youth Leadership Conference continues to empower young people to speak up, step forward, and lead the future of agriculture with confidence.