26 GERMINATION.CA JANUARY 2019 How did growing up on a seed farm make you into who you are today? Growing up on a seed farm shaped me into a hard- working and passionate person. Always being outside and working hands-on in the field made me develop a love for nature and a desire to take care of the land to the best of my ability. I developed an immense passion for agricul- ture, and quickly discovered my purpose was to ensure that our earth continues on sustainably. I learned how to work hard and this taught me determination and persis- tence. I believe one of my strongest influences growing up on a seed farm was the sense of community. I saw how farmers were always willing to drop whatever they were doing to help others in need, and I believe this has shaped me into a kind and helpful person. What's the one major difference you hope to make in agriculture? In our society there is a huge division between food and fork, meaning there is a lack of communication between farmers and consumers. I hope to make a difference by educating people around the world about agricultural practices and share the love that I have for agriculture. With the use of education and communication, together we can create a sustainable future with trust between consumers and producers. What's the biggest challenge you feel agriculture faces right now and how can we fix that? Sustainability is an immense challenge the agriculture industry faces every day. The struggle to find agricultural practices that create a sustainable food source and envi- ronment is difficult when economic and ecological factors are involved. I believe a way that we can fix the challenge of sustainability is by using new technologies like gene editing and continuing research on more sustainable prac- tices such as low tillage. Are you a glass is half-full or glass is half-empty person and why? I am a glass half-full person, as I often see the positive side of things and enjoy what I have. I am optimistic about the future of agriculture and trust that this powerful industry will do great things to enhance our world. The challenges that the agriculture industry is currently facing provide opportunity for creativity and growth among our society, and these opportunities are something that should be embraced. ANYAILLINGWORTH:4QUESTIONS Illingworth is the winner of this year’s CSAAC annual $500 grant for post-secondary education in agriculture