Club Officer check-in: 5 Minutes with...Amelia Ford, Ashley YFC

After four years in Young Farmers, Amelia Ford, wanted a challenge so took on the role of Secretary at Ashley YFC where she supports its 37 members.

Q. Why did you want to take on a role in your club?

I wanted to challenge myself and be proud of my achievement when reflecting on it at the end of my year as secretary.

Q. How is your club structured?

We run as one club, which gives members of all ages the chance to mix, learn from each other and get involved together. We don’t usually separate juniors and seniors for meetings, but we do make sure there’s a variety of activities and opportunities that suit everyone.

Having a mixed-age club creates a really supportive atmosphere and helps newer members grow in confidence quickly.

Q. How do you balance your club duties with your personal/professional life?

Balancing club duties with personal and professional life can be busy at times, but good organisation and communication with other top table members has really benefited my experience.

Q. How does your club plan its programme?

We get ideas from members and the committee to make sure there’s a good mix of competitions, socials, community events and activities throughout the year. We try to organise something for everyone so members stay engaged and enjoy being part of the club.

Our best meetings are probably farm tours. They are enjoyed by many members including past members or family members and is really interesting seeing what other farms do well in and everyone enjoys a nosey too!

Q. Tell us about a top skill you've developed through this role?

My confidence. It’s given me the opportunity to push myself and be out of my comfort zone and give me something to be proud of.

Q. How does your club recruit and welcome new members?

Mainly through social media and advertising using duck signs around local villages.

We’re a friendly and welcoming club, so we always make an effort to introduce new members to everyone, encourage them to get involved straight away and make sure they feel comfortable and included.

Q. What's a challenge you have faced as a young leader of a club?

Balancing everyone’s different ideas and expectations while keeping the club organised and running smoothly.

I’ve overcome this by improving my communication, listening to other committee members and not being afraid to ask for help from my vices and previous secretaries who have really supported me.

Q. What one tip would you give to others in a similar role to you?

The biggest thing for me as a young secretary is don’t be afraid to ask for help from other members, try your hardest and know it’s okay to make mistakes and be able to learn from it in future situations.

If you would like to be featured in our club officer check in, email media@nfyfc.org.uk. Find more information and guidance for club officers in the YFC Handbook.