By Emmy Powell
Communications Specialist

Students in the graduating classes of 2028 and 2029 participated in Texas Farm Bureau’s (TFB) district Engage events this spring, building leadership skills and connecting with peers and agricultural leaders in their area.

Engage is an in-person event hosted in each of TFB’s 13 districts as part of the organization’s Student Success Series.

The program helps students develop leadership and communication skills while learning more about agriculture, free enterprise and opportunities available through Farm Bureau.

Throughout the events, students heard from community leaders in agriculture and western industries, learned about personal branding and social media engagement and gained insight into how the free enterprise system impacts businesses and consumers.

“Engage provides students with opportunities to grow as leaders while connecting with others from across their district who share similar interests and passions,” said Dr. Clarissa Darby, Texas Farm Bureau Youth Outreach coordinator. “The program encourages students to step outside of their comfort zones, develop communication skills and learn how they can make an impact in their schools and communities.”

Students also learned more about youth opportunities and leadership development available through the organization.

Over 160 students across the state participated in Engage this year.

As part of each district event, the students toured a local agricultural business to learn more about agriculture in their area and connect with local farmers, ranchers and business owners.

“The tours give students a firsthand look at agriculture and shows them the many ways farmers and ranchers contribute to their communities,” Darby said. “It helps build connections between students and the people who grow our food, fiber and fuel.”

Students who participated in Engage are also eligible to compete in TFB’s Free Enterprise Speech Contest, which is a district-level competition where students prepare and submit a recorded speech focused on free enterprise and agriculture.

Engage is one of four programs included in TFB’s Student Success Series, alongside Jumpstart, Activate and Thrive.

More information about TFB youth programs and activities is available through Texas Farm Bureau Youth Opportunities.