Comment Column
A message from KFB’s 2024 Outstand Youth

I’m Aiden Manley, and I am honored to be the 2024 Outstanding Kentucky Farm Bureau Youth Male Winner.  As a senior at Menifee County High School, I plan to attend the University of Kentucky to major in Agricultural Education and Advocacy in the fall. My background in agriculture begins at my grandparent’s farm in Elliott County, where I learned how to mow hay and work with cattle. My passion for agriculture began in the classroom through agricultural education and FFA which have provided life changing experiences that have given me a love for this industry. This year I am blessed to serve as President of my chapter and the Licking River Region. I am the co-host of an agricultural podcast titled “Seeds of Success” where I interview leaders in agriculture. In 2022, this contest was my first public speaking experience and through it I have connected with outstanding youth from all across the state. This opportunity and the Institute for Future Agricultural Leaders (IFAL) have been key in helping me grow as an advocate for agriculture. It is a blessing to represent Kentucky Farm Bureau and Menifee County this year and experience the opportunities that come with it. It is incredible to network with the leaders in this organization and see grassroots advocacy reach Washington D.C. on the Congressional Tour. I am beyond grateful for the investment Kentucky Farm Bureau puts into the youth and I can’t wait to learn and grow as an advocate throughout this next year!

My name is Laney Pease, the 2024 Outstanding Farm Bureau Youth Female Winner for Kentucky Farm Bureau. Currently attending Fleming County High School as a senior, I serve as the FFA President, Turning Point USA Vice President, Interact Club President, and the Licking River Region FFA Secretary. Beyond academics, I own and manage Sweet Pease Berries and Bouquets, a floral servicing business providing flowers for weddings and events. I am also employed in Marketing, Office and Outreach Support at the Kentucky Welding Institute. My drive to be involved in the agriculture industry came from two ag teacher parents, who both teach at Fleming County.  After years of being involved in agriculture and having had amazing opportunities through Kentucky Farm Bureau, FFA, and 4-H, I desire to advocate and give back to the industry that has helped shape me. Upon graduation in May, I will attend Western Kentucky University, obtaining a degree in Agribusiness with a focus on marketing and public policy. Through the many networking opportunities Kentucky Farm Bureau provides, I have traveled the bluegrass state and even to our nation’s capital; from IFAL at Murray State University, the KFB annual meeting in Louisville, to Washington D.C. on the Congressional Tour, and eventually the Country Ham Breakfast at the Kentucky State Fair. Ultimately, seeing the family that members of Kentucky Farm Bureau become makes me confident that I will find my place within agriculture and Kentucky Farm Bureau, and cannot wait to take the next step with Collegiate Farm Bureau. 

Aiden Manley, Laney Pease
KFB’s 2024 Outstanding Youth