Application deadline is October 2, 2026.
The YF&R Discussion Meet is an annual competitive leadership development opportunity in which participants build basic discussion skills, develop a keen understanding of important agricultural issues and explore how groups can pool knowledge to reach consensus and solve problems. The competition is designed to simulate a committee meeting where discussion and active participation are expected from each participant.
Competitors are evaluated on an exchange of ideas and information on a pre-determined topic. A successful participant is a productive thinker rather than an emotional persuader. He/she will assist the group in creating ways to implement the solutions discussed and highlight Farm Bureau’s involvement in those actions/steps.
This competition is open to any Farm Bureau member between the ages of 18-35 that is actively engaged in agriculture.
Contest Format
- Participants prepare thoughtful responses to questions that are provided in advance. On the day of the competition, participants take part in one round of discussion with 4-6 competitors before judges and an audience. Four participants will advance to the final round.
- Participants are judged on Problem Solving, Analysis of Topic, Cooperative Attitude, Delivery, Opening Statement and Closing Statement.
- The Discussion Meet is intended to simulate a committee meeting and building consensus and problem solving is very important to this competition.
- The winner and runner up will be determined by the judges after the final round. All competitors will be recognized during the Awards Program on Friday evening at the SCFB Annual Convention.
2026 Discussion Meet Questions
Discussion Meet Competitors Manual
Discussion Meet Competition Rubric
Prize Package
Sweet 16 participants will receive a $100 Farm Bureau Bank Visa gift card.
The Final Four will receive a $500 Farm Bureau Bank Visa gift card.
The winner will receive:
- A John Deere XUV560E S4
- A trip to compete (required) at the American Farm Bureau (AFBF) Annual Convention in Charlotte, NC, January 8-13, 2027
- A one-night stay at the 2027 SCFB YF&R Conference in Greenville, SC, January 30, 2027
- An opportunity to attend the 2027 AFBF Fusion Conference in New Orleans, LA, March 12-15, 2027*
Discussion Meet Training Series
A training series will be available to members through My HomePlace starting in August 2026 to help prepare for the 2026 Young Farmer and Rancher Discussion Meet competition, held at the SCFB Annual Meeting in December.
Join the "SCFB Young Farmers & Ranchers Facebook Group" for additional resources.
2025 Discussion Meet Winner -
Katie Martin, Anderson County
Discussion Meet prizes are sponsored in part by the SC Farm Bureau Federation and Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company.