ANAHEIM, CA — Cady Brown, a Southwest Counties Farm Bureau member and senior at the University of Montana Western, recently represented Montana on the national stage at the 107th American Farm Bureau Convention. Competing in the Young Farmer & Rancher (YF&R) Discussion Meet, Brown successfully navigated two preliminary rounds to secure a spot in the prestigious "Sweet Sixteen."

Unlike a traditional debate, the AFBF Discussion Meet simulates a committee meeting. Participants are evaluated on their ability to exchange ideas, build consensus, and actively participate in solving industry challenges. This year’s topics spanned critical issues, including urban sprawl and land use, succession planning for family farms, digital engagement, environmental stewardship and strengthening industry relations.

Brown emphasized that while the national level requires a sharper competitive edge, the value lies in the diverse perspectives shared.

“It’s very competitive, but it’s also fun because you hear from young farmers and ranchers from all over the country, not just your state,” Brown said. “Being in these events encourages you to sharpen your speaking skills and deepens your knowledge of Farm Bureau policy.”

Brown’s strategy focused on building rapport before the rounds even began. By learning about her competitors’ backgrounds and commodities, she was able to facilitate a more natural flow during the discussion. "As advocates for agriculture, it’s vital to be well-spoken on a national level," Brown added. "This event allows you to meet outstanding people and create unique connections—all while traveling to places like Anaheim."

Hailing from Three Forks, Montana, Brown is pursuing a business degree with a minor in equine management. While she didn't grow up on a farm, she built her foundation through 4-H, FFA, and ranch work beginning at age 14.

Brown is no stranger to success in the arena; she was the 2024 MFBF Collegiate Discussion Meet winner and currently serves as the president of the UM Western Collegiate Chapter.

The American Farm Bureau Convention continues through January 14 in Anaheim, celebrating the essential role young producers like Brown play in the future of production agriculture.

Montana Farm Bureau Federation is the largest general agricultural organization in the state with 19,000 member families. We exist to lead Montana agriculture toward a future with a prosperous agriculture economy and thriving rural communities. Learn more at mfbf.org and follow us at @MontanaFarmBureau on Instagram or @MontanaFarmBureau on Facebook.