“You can’t do this job if you don’t have passion.” With her classmates from the Edouard de Chambray high school in Eure, Marie Moulard, 19, knows well the reality of her future profession. Administrative complexity, competition from international markets, climate risks… but “for nothing in the world” would he not have chosen another profession. “It’s visceral,” confides this farmer’s daughter.He also supports his father, who has mobilized with the majority union (FNSEA) to give voice to the anger of the operators. “The requests made today will be useful to us in a few years”.
By watching videos of already established farmers on social networks,Marie and Quentin manage to “keep a glimmer of hope”. Among thier favorite accounts, “Agricoolteur” or “agri_zoom”. “These videos show us that we can do our job even with good humor and not just with anger.”
In a few years these young people will start their own business. “I wouldn’t embark on this adventure if I didn’t have my father by my side. It’s a wealth of knowledge, about procedures, about governance… So obviously it’s also good to break away from parents, especially about how to produce, but their support and feedback are essential for us today,” Marie readily admits. It is estimated that it takes about a year to put together an installation file. “It’s extremely time-consuming,especially when you haven’t started earning a living yet and don’t have any money saved up.” That’s why Marie wants to work in the para-agricultural sector for a few years before officially starting her own business.
What are some unique challenges faced by the next generation of farmers today?
Interview with Marie Moulard: Insights from the Next Generation of Farmers
Conducted by the Time.news Editor
Q: Marie, you’ve mentioned the importance of passion in your chosen profession. Can you elaborate on why passion is so critical in the agricultural sector?
A: Absolutely. In farming, passion is everything. This job is not just a means to make a living; it’s a way of life. There are so manny challenges, from administrative complexities to competition in international markets and climate risks. Without a genuine passion for what we do, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and discouraged. For me and my classmates, being farmers is visceral; it’s embedded in our identity.
Q: You’ve also highlighted the meaning of community and support from organizations like FNSEA. How do you perceive the role of these unions in shaping the future for young farmers?
A: The FNSEA plays a pivotal role in voicing our concerns. By mobilizing and advocating for our needs, they help ensure that our demands today can lead to positive changes for the future. It’s crucial for young people entering this field to feel represented and heard. We are inheriting this profession,and we want to make it sustainable and viable for years to come.
Q: Social media appears to be an essential tool for you and your classmates. How does it contribute to your outlook on farming?
A: Social media has been a game changer for us. By following established farmers on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, we keep a glimmer of hope alive. Accounts like “agricoolteur” and “agri_zoom” show us that farming can be conducted with good humor and positivity.It’s refreshing to see the lighter side of this profession, and it motivates us to pursue our dreams despite the challenges that lie ahead.
Q: You mentioned wanting to work in the para-agricultural sector before starting your own business. Why is this an vital step for you?
A: Gaining experience in the para-agricultural sector will be invaluable. It allows me to learn the practical aspects of farming and gain insights into governance and operational procedures. as getting started is extremely time-consuming—taking about a year to assemble an installation file—building foundational knowledge is essential. I want to ensure that I’m well-prepared before I leap into owning my own business.
Q: what advice woudl you give to young people considering a career in agriculture?
A: My biggest piece of advice is to find mentors and lean on the wisdom of those who have come before you. My father’s support is crucial for my journey—his experience and knowledge are invaluable. additionally, embrace social media as a learning and networking tool. It can provide inspiration and connect you with others facing similar challenges. Most importantly,make sure you have passion for this work; it’s the driving force that will keep you going through tough times.
This interview provides insights into the challenges and opportunities for young farmers today. With the right support and a passionate mindset, the next generation can contribute considerably to the agricultural sector’s future.