11 Feb How Young Farmers helped Douglas Ross MSP find his voice – and why he’s backing Young Farmers Big Build
Douglas Ross MSP is urging supporters of Scottish agriculture to get behind the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs’ (SAYFC) Big Build, after crediting Young Farmers with giving him the confidence, skills and platform that helped shape his career.
Douglas’ connection to Young Farmers began early. Introduced to farming through his father’s work on a dairy farm, he took part in a stock judging competition and performed strongly. Though too young to join SAYFC at the time, local Young Farmers encouraged him to return when he was old enough, advice he later followed.
Douglas joined Lower Speyside Young Farmers Club (YFC), where he quickly became an active and fully immersed member. He regularly took part in stock judging, attended events and competitions, and embraced the social and educational opportunities the club offered. His commitment to the organisation saw him go on to become Chair of Lower Speyside YFC.
One of the most influential moments of Douglas’ Young Farmers journey came through speechmaking competitions. While a member, he competed as part of a team that went on to win the national SAYFC speechmaking championships, an experience he credits with sparking his interest in debate, public speaking and representation, and which ultimately helped pave the way towards his career as a Member of the Scottish Parliament.
Today, Douglas regularly meets with Young Farmers from across Scotland in his role as an MSP, recognising the value of the skills, experience and confidence they develop through the organisation.
Douglas said: “Young Farmers have a massive influence on the wider agricultural industry in Scotland, which is why it’s so important we continue to support this organisation and provide it with the tools to thrive. Confidence, communication skills, industry knowledge and real-world experience are all essential attributes nurtured through Young Farmers clubs, strengthening the sector by preparing the next generation to lead and influence into the future.
“It’s essential that we hear from current and future farmers in Parliament, to properly understand their perspectives. I regularly meet with Young Farmers who are articulate, knowledgeable and able to give valuable input. Those skills are developed through the opportunities SAYFC provides, from meetings and conferences to competitions like speechmaking.”
Douglas also highlighted the importance of SAYFC’s traditions and national events, which bring together members from remote islands and rural communities across Scotland.
“Conferences and national competitions were real highlights of my time in Young Farmers. They bring people together from all corners of the country, allowing members to share ideas, learn from each other and talk openly about shared challenges and opportunities. These are traditions that generations of Young Farmers recognise and value, and they’re vital to the strength of the industry.”
In backing SAYFC’s Big Build, Douglas is keen to see those opportunities continue for generations to come.
“We know how much the former SAYFC building at the Royal Highland Centre supported previous generations of Young Farmers and how important it is as a focal point of the Royal Highland Show. It’s only right that the next generation gets to experience that same sense of pride and belonging, in a fit-for-purpose facility.
“The Big Build will ensure SAYFC has a national home for generations to come, one that reflects the ambition, professionalism and impact of the organisation, and supports young people to develop the skills Scotland’s agricultural industry needs.”
The SAYFC Big Build aims to create a new centre for Scotland’s rural youth, following the loss of its previous headquarters at the Royal Highland Showground. The new facility will provide a year-round base for Young Farmers staff and members, act as a social hub to help tackle rural isolation and strengthen community connections, offer event and office spaces to support collaboration with other agricultural organisations, and include archive and exhibition space to showcase the history of SAYFC.
SAYFC is now encouraging individuals, businesses and supporters across the rural community to get behind the Big Build. Donations will help create a lasting home that supports young people, strengthens rural communities and enables future success stories like Douglas’s.
Businesses, individuals, trusts, and organisations interested in contributing, securing naming rights, or discussing major gifts are encouraged to contact: [email protected] To find out more about SAYFC’s Big Build or to make a donation, visit https://www.sayfc.org/donate/sayfcs-big-build/