Nine Albertans named Canadian Cattle Young Leaders finalists

Nine Albertans are among the 16 finalists selected for the 2026-27 Canadian Cattle Young Leaders (CYL) Program.

The Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) announced the finalists September 1, 2026, following the annual CYL Selections Competition, held August 18, 2026, during the Canadian Beef Industry Conference in Winnipeg, Man.

The competition brought together semi-finalists from across the country representing different areas of the beef supply chain. Participants rotated through six judged roundtable discussions focused on issues facing the industry, including succession planning, public trust, education, leadership, technology and international trade.

Finalists were selected based on their performance throughout the discussions, which were facilitated and evaluated by industry representatives and program sponsors.

“Congratulations to CYL finalists. The passion, dedication, and knowledge demonstrated for the Canadian beef industry during the roundtable discussions was inspiring,” said Tyler Fulton, president of the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA). “This year’s impressive group of semi-finalists emphasized that the Canadian beef industry is in good hands with the talent and leadership of the next generation.”

The Alberta finalists are:

• Andria Carlyon, of Dapp
• Caith Cameron, of Didsbury
• Derek Friend, of Rosalind
• Jordyn Prior, of Irma
• Karin Roen, of Oyen
• Lauren Stefaniuk, of Airdrie
• Quinn Devine, of Innisfree
• Ralph Thrall IV, of Lethbridge
• Sydney Fortier, of Diamond Valley

Meanwhile, seven additional finalists were selected from British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec.

They include Sarah MacDonald of Vanderhoof, B.C.; Blythe Clemence of Broadview, Sask.; Jessica Davey of southwest Saskatoon, Sask.; Olivia Woytiuk of Shell Lake, Sask.; Mae Fulton of Birtle, Man.; Elizabeth Teel of Listowel, Ont.; and Emilie Blondeau of Princeville, Que.

Each finalist will receive a $3,000 budget for industry travel and learning opportunities.

In addition, finalists will be paired with industry mentors for a nine-month mentorship based on their interests and career goals.