17 ONTARIO GRAIN FARMER SEPTEMBER 2024 campaign to help bring awareness to Ontario grains and grain farming. She was featured in YouTube videos, on social media, and on billboards in the GTA. As she settles into her new role, she looks forward to learning more about the various committees and work the Board does, with interest in the Resolutions, Communications, and March Classic committees. “I’m especially interested in being involved with the farmer wellness committee,” she says. “That’s a concern for a lot of farmers – we are at Mother Nature’s mercy. Many farmers are struggling silently.” Pearson says she hopes to bring a different perspective to the Board – that of the young farmer just getting started in the industry. While she grew up on her family farm, doing everything from planting to spraying to combining, and now works closely with family, she is an ambitious entrepreneur; she bought her first farm in 2019 and a second in 2020. “Representation is important,” she says. “Young farmers are facing different things. I want to advocate for that generation of farmers.” OVERWHELMING SUPPORT “Brendan has been an exceptional advocate for District 1 and Essex County,” she says. “I wish him all the best in his new position.” Byrne says that the delegates in District 1 (Essex) enthusiastically threw their support behind Pearson. “Grace has my full support in this role,” he says. “She has consistently shown up for the District, and she’s an up-andcoming leader. I think she’ll do a tremendous job.” • Pearson appreciates the support she has received from delegates and from Byrne, who encouraged her to take on the new role.
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