Each month we speak to a Young Farmer. This month we caught up with Laura Gunn, 23, from Caithness
What Young Farmers’ Club are you a member of?
I am a member of the Forss Young Farmers.
Do you hold or have you held any office-bearer roles at Young Farmers?
County secretary and club vice-chairman.
What’s your background in agriculture?
I was brought up on a farm.
What do you do for an occupation?
I’m a community nurse in North Sutherland.
What sparked your interest in agriculture?
I have always had an interest in agriculture since I was a child and spent a lot of my childhood at the farm.
What is the most rewarding thing about working in the farming industry?
Unfortunately, I don’t work in the agricultural sector, but I do help out at our farm as and when required. I love working with sheep and cattle and especially lambing time.
As a rural youth, do you think there is something we should be doing additionally or differently within the agricultural sector?
We should continue to encourage young people to get involved in the farming industry and provide more help for new entrants so that they can get established in the agricultural sector.
Where do you see the farming sector in 10 years’ time?
I believe it is getting harder and harder to sustain a profitable business in the farming industry without diversification. In years to come, I feel there will be a lot of diversification into other ventures to generate more funds.
If you could pass on one piece of advice to someone looking to get into the sector, what would it be?
If you are passionate about something then don’t give up on your dreams, as anything is possible with a strong determination to succeed.
We can’t end the interview without talking about Young Farmers, so tell us about your experience – why did you join?
I joined when I was 14, as I was encouraged to join by my older brother and friends.
What do you enjoy most about Young Farmers?
I enjoy the wide variety of opportunities and competitions that Young Farmers offers and, of course, the social aspect.
How do you feel Young Farmers has impacted on your life?
Since joining Young Farmers, I have definitely become more confident and have met a lot of new people that I would never otherwise have met. I have also taken part in various activities such as the overwintering competition, stock judging and lamb/cattle dressing which I had never done before, and therefore I have learned new skills.
Do you have any advice for anyone looking to join?
Go for it. Within young farmers there is something for everyone and you will learn new skills and meet lots of new people.
