a TEDx Talk about misconceptions in animal agriculture. Her piece is called “What I Wish You Would Ask Me” and challenges consumers to start conversations with producers about how they care for their animals and how the food on their plates is actually produced. “Showing cattle has given me focus and direction in my life,” said Clark. “Yet there are so many people out there that do not understand what we do and want to give us a bad name because of what they read on social media. I am hoping that my TEDx Talk will invite them to reach out and ask questions instead of making the assumption that all farmers are bad.” In addition to Clark’s talk, the team worked with an Iowa hog showman to give his account of the show industry through a video they shot last summer called “A Showman’s Story.” The video focused on the internal monologue of the showman and the work it takes to prepare animals for competitive exhibition. This video project opened the door for the team to host their own agricultural television show, Agri-Vision. After wrapping up their first season on air, CAC members joined with producers from RFD-TV and started showcasing other students’ agricultural journeys. All members of the CAC Media team agree that being able to experience the different aspects of agricultural journalism and media coverage has helped them plan for their future in a multitude of ways. “Working across so many different media platforms has really allowed me to find my place in the industry,” said
senior Kesley Holdgrafer. “I know what I want to do with my future because I have had the opportunity to try out roles and have found my voice in journalism.” The group has several new projects they are embarking on for 2021 including partnering on a youth cattle conference dedicated to helping young producers fill in their knowledge gaps when it comes to creating feed rations, diagnosing illness, and more. They will also be rolling out their mentor’s project designed to tell the stories of some of the great mentors in the livestock industry and help link them to youth who may be interested in the unique aspects of their businesses. “This mentor’s project is something we have been thinking about for a long time,” said member Jake VanderHeiden. “Being a part of this group, we have had the chance to see firsthand the impact of positive mentorship. We see it as another way to continue to highlight the good happening in agriculture.” In a time when it is trendy to criticize farming practices, CAC members understand the need to speak up for their industry. It is on this stage that all livestock exhibitors have a chance to shine. Every showman has a story and those narratives are what we need to truly make a difference. For more information about the CAC Media Group or to get involved in their mentor’s project, you can check them out on Facebook at CAC Media Group or Instagram at CAC_Media_Group. •
275
Powered by FlippingBook