By Emmy Powell
Communications Specialist

Members of Texas Farm Bureau’s (TFB) AgLead XVI class traveled to Peru in August to wrap up the two-year leadership development program.

While in Peru, AgLead members connected and engaged with farmers, ranchers and government officials to discuss farming practices, regulations and other aspects and challenges to agriculture in the country.

“This trip has broadened my perspective on agriculture in other countries,” Kirby Nixon, Floyd County Farm Bureau member, said. “It has deepened my appreciation for home and the American farmer, who operates on a larger scale to feed and clothe the world. Peruvian farmers, though smaller in scale, make a significant impact on their communities. This exposure has made me a more worldly individual, which undoubtedly enhances my leadership capabilities.”

AgLead participants had the opportunity to visit several agricultural operations.

They toured the International Potato Center, the Sarapampa Farm where they learned how corn has influenced the Andean culture, Maras Salts Pans Moray Ancient Inca Agricultural Laboratory, the Potato Park, an asparagus and blueberry farm, Pisco winery, a chicken and egg farm, and visited a textile center to see South American llamas.

“I was most surprised by the simple, yet effective, approach of Peruvian farmers,” Nixon said. “They are hands-on, maintain organic practices and remain progressive by cultivating diverse crops. During my visit to a corn farm, I was impressed to see how they still use an ancient method to treat their seeds.”

He emphasized the lessons they taught the group on adaptability and embracing change.

“During our tours, I observed a consistent trend where traditional crops continue to be cultivated, while newer crops suitable for the global market are also being introduced,” Nixon said.

The AgLead class met with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service for a briefing on trade between the U.S. and Peru.

The group was reminded that leaders have diverse backgrounds and skill sets.

“Good leaders continue to learn and grow all their lives. They don’t stop when they’re CEO. You must continue to grow to become a good leader,” Dr. Anna Kantor, AgLead participant from Limestone County, said. “Input from people from different backgrounds—as we went through a foreign country, sharing our personal experiences, our life experiences with each other, as well as with the people that we met—is valuable. No matter what age we are, no matter our background, what our culture brings, I think the farmer is united across the country and the globe and that was beautiful to see in Peru.”

The group explored historical locations in Lima, Cousco and the Ballesta Islands. They also visited the Pisac Archaeological Site and Machu Picchu, one of the seven wonders of the world.

“The tour of Machu Picchu was an unforgettable experience,” Kantor said. “It offered us a profound insight into the ancient civilization. It deepened our understanding of their agricultural practices, daily routines and ways of life 500 years ago. It was remarkable to observe the meticulous planning of the cities and their ability to adapt parts of the Andes mountains to sustain life.”

About AgLead
AgLead is TFB’s newly enhanced leadership program.

Through the two-year program, Farm Bureau members travel the state, country and the world to discover agriculture and leadership from a new perspective.

AgLead builds on a strong legacy of leadership development, offering broader exposure to policy, trade and business management, while emphasizing personal and professional growth.

Applications open
TFB is currently accepting applications for the AgLead XVII program.

A maximum of 12 participants will be selected. Applicants must be 25 or older as of Dec. 31 in order to apply. Participants must be a TFB member at time of application and throughout the program, if selected.

Applications and supporting documents must be submitted by Oct. 13.

For the application, costs and more information on the program, visit texasfarmbureau.org/aglead.