By Rachel Martin
The anniversary year is a chance to showcase the depth, diversity and quality of IFAJ journalism worldwide – and to tell our story in a way only our members can. The Communications Committee is excited to launch two special initiatives.
1. IFAJ memories and stories – What IFAJ means to me
We’re looking for stories that reflect what IFAJ has meant to people over the years – memorable moments, friendships formed, career-shaping experiences, or stories that capture the unique spirit of the organisation.
Your favourite old photographs from congresses, tours, or informal moments would also be very welcome. (Please include names or details if you can remember them!)
Stories should be no longer than 1,000 words. Shorter submissions are also welcome.
These may be shared on the IFAJ website and other channels to celebrate the anniversary year.
We will have some small prizes for our favourite submissions!
Memories and pictures can be submitted here:
https://ifaj.fillout.com/t/mtYUDBc8Hbus
Deadline: April 30
2. Stories from all around the world
The Communications Committee are also working on putting together a digital anniversary publication. As part of this they would like to include one strong, well-written feature from each member country, focused on a farm, farming family, or agricultural enterprise that reflects the character of agriculture in your part of the world.
Think “a good read” rather than a fact file – storytelling, people, place and purpose. It could be a challenge farmers in your country are working hard to overcome, a local success story or someone doing things a little bit differently. The key is that there should be a strong human element to the story that will resonate with readers around the world.
We are still shaping how these features will ultimately be brought together, but our aim is for every IFAJ member country to be represented. The story should be around 1,000-1,500 words and include pictures (300dpi or above), which IFAJ would have permission to use as part of the e-book.
Please also share five key facts about agriculture in your country… the more fun and interesting, the better!
It is ok if the stories have been used somewhere else before, as long as we have permission to also publish it.
Think about which story best represents your country and who might be well placed to write it!
A separate email will be sent to the executive members with the form link to make sure we only receive one story per country.
Deadline: March 30
Get in touch if there is something you’d like to talk something through or if would like to get involved with the Communications Committee during this exciting year.