Honourable senators, as many of you know, when I rise in this chamber it is usually to talk about agriculture, rural communities and the issues facing our country that affect them both.

However, I also enjoy rising to show my support for youth and leadership programs offered throughout Canada, like 4-H and Junior Farmers, among others.

Today I am honoured to rise to highlight once again the importance of youth development, whether it be through youth leadership programs, quality education, peer-to-peer networks or extracurricular activities.

Youth are our future, and it is our job to make sure they are equipped to lead our country after us. Whenever possible, I speak with our younger generations about the Senate of Canada, my road to the Senate and the importance of being active in their communities.

Whether organized through SENgage, requests sent directly to my office or during my travels, I speak as often as I can to classes and schools across this country, meeting youth of all ages.

Just this year, I’ve already had the pleasure of speaking with Grade 5 classes in Huntsville and post-secondary students at the University of Saskatchewan. I must say, I always enjoy these opportunities. Hearing their comments, questions and concerns helps me to better understand their issues and better represent them in this chamber.

Honourable colleagues, it is the youth of today who will be the leaders of tomorrow. And my friend Ms. Scarlett Nixon will indeed be a leader of tomorrow, right here in Ontario. At 13 years of age, youth like Scarlett are already volunteering their time organizing school functions, participating in extracurricular activities, helping and tutoring peers, in addition to working after-school jobs.

When I speak to our youth, I like to share a few lessons that I wish somebody had told me when I was younger. I start by saying, don’t be afraid to dig in and get your hands dirty. Never say “no” to an opportunity, as you never know what you may learn from it. It’s okay to make mistakes, because learning comes from those mistakes. And, finally, to quote 4-H Canada’s motto: “Learn To Do By Doing.”

As I wrap up, I encourage our younger generation who might watch this, those who are our future leaders, to take advantage of the many opportunities they might have and run with them. Take chances when you can and try new things.

As you navigate the ever-changing world we live in, know that parliamentarians, like me — and us — are working to support you as well. We are here to guide you, support you, mentor you and ensure that you’re equipped with the best tools for success now and into the future.

I encourage them to reach out to their senators and their MPs if they have concerns that we should know about. Their voice is the voice of the future, and we need to hear from them.

Thank you to our youth, like Scarlett, for getting involved, taking chances and being a leader and a role model.

Thank you. Meegwetch.