Leah Duquette
2023 Farm Skills Training Program participant
The Farm Skills Training Program was started in 2022 by MFC and a broad coalition of partners. The Program offers participants opportunities to develop farm skills and to gain knowledge about how to grow their own food.
Q: What made you decide to apply to the Farm Skills Training Program?
A: Well I was in search of a job and I knew I wanted to do something outdoors. One day my mom got an email about the Farm Skills Program and it sparked my interest, so I applied and got an interview and now I'm here! I'm so grateful for such an amazing experience.
Q: How has your perspective, or interaction, with the local food system changed since starting the Farm Skills Training Program?
A: The Farm Skills Training Program has taught me a lot, It's opened my eyes and makes me much more grateful to everyone who grows and cares for our food.
Q: What have you been most surprised to learn about yourself and about food production since starting this Program?
A: One thing I've learned about myself, is just how much I enjoy being and working outdoors. Doing projects outside really boosts my mood and calms my mind. Something that's surprised me about food production is just how much time and work goes into it all, growing, washing, packing, and then selling the food.
Q: How are you hoping to use the experience gained through this Program going forward?
A: Well, truthfully I didn't really know what I wanted to do after high school but this Program has really grown my love for gardening, so after I'm finished with the Program I'm hoping to work on a local farm near me. Hopefully, down the road, I'll have a homestead of my own with animals and gardens and I could start my own small farming business.
Q: What would you like to see happen in the region to support increased production, consumption, and access to food?
A: I'd love to see more local farmers and people buying more locally, foodbanks are always such great sources.