Martina brings experience as a communicator, organizer, non-profit leader and agrologist to her IFAJ role.
You’ve probably noticed a new name in your In Box on IFAJ messages: Martina Graf, IFAJ’s new Global Manager. Martina replaced Hugh Maynard in the role when Hugh retired in February 2024 (though the two are still in close touch as Hugh provides advice based on his long history with the organization).
Martina has a broad base of experience as an agrologist, small farmer, writer, communicator and researcher. Born and raised in Switzerland, she now lives with her family in British Columbia, Canada, where she farms vegetables and operates a Digital Detox agritourism retreat and advises clients, including IFAJ.
“What excites me most about working at IFAJ is the opportunity to use my organizational, strategic and intercultural skills to help journalists and communicators share and discover agriculture and its stories globally,” Graf said. “My new role brings me back to the roots of my 20+ year agricultural journey (I studied BSc International Agriculture and since then worked internationally) and allows me to work where I am passionate about: international agriculture and communication.”
After a month in the role of Global Manager—which included overseeing the application process for the IFAJ/Alltech Young Leaders program, helping members of the Spanish guild APAE with logistics for the 2024 IFAJ Executive midwinter meeting, organizing the Presidium and Executive meetings, and attending the midwinter meeting in Spain—we asked Martina to share her initial impressions of the organization.
“Attending my first IFAJ press tour and executive meeting was a profound experience,” she said. “I feel privileged to work with dedicated professionals who are committed to engaging agricultural journalists on a global scale. The press tour instilled a profound sense of connection, rekindling my appreciation for the core of international agriculture. I look forward to the next gathering with fellow IFAJ members.
“I feel welcomed and supported by the presidium and members of IFAJ,” Graf added. “I was also struck by the high level of voluntary commitment of IFAJ members.”
Martina at the Executive Meeting in Spain.