A huge congratulations to the team from Enniskillen Royal Grammar School, who have been crowned the overall winners of the 2025 ABP Angus Youth Challenge.
The winning team — Conor Phair, Mackenzie Wilson, Jenson Lindsay and Alfie Thompson — impressed judges with their project “One Health: The Link Between Animal, Human and Plant Health.” Their research tackled the vital issue of soil health and farmer education. As part of their work, they developed a Soil Analysis Results Guide to help farmers easily understand data and make better on-farm decisions. The guide has already been distributed to local vets, marts and agricultural stores.
Judges described the project as “an outstanding example of research applied to deliver real benefits,” praising the team for their practical and impactful approach.
The pupils also organised a ‘Healthy Soil, Healthy Future’ conference attended by more than 130 farmers and industry guests, and raised £6,540 for Air Ambulance NI and Rural Support during their time as finalists. The group received the ABP Angus Youth Challenge Cup and a £1,000 cash prize for their school.
The team from Markethill High School — Natasha Dickson, Rachel Johnston, Ellie Gilmore and Autumn Mulholland — were named runners-up for their project “Food Provenance: Do You Know What You Eat?”
They created and published a cookbook, “A Cut Above the Rest,” showcasing Northern Irish beef dishes. The team sold 280 copies, raising £2,300 for charity, and shared their work through cookery demonstrations at the Armagh Show. Judges praised their “exceptional initiative, leadership and passion for learning,” as well as their strong social media presence and community engagement.
The Outstanding Individual Achievement Award went to Casey Jane Creegan from St Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen. Working with teammate Michaela McGuinness, their project was “Sustainable Beef Consumption and the Young Consumer.” Their campaign promoted beef recipes to young audiences in a fun and engaging way.
Judges recognised Casey Jane for her enthusiasm, teamwork and community spirit.
The team from Lecale Trinity Grammar School — Ben O’Connor, Brent Magouran, Christopher Cunningham and Lochlann Hegarty — were commended as finalists for their project “Raising Awareness of Animal Welfare Standards.” They organised an Animal Welfare Conference at their school and developed educational resources for other students, inspired by an online meeting with international animal behaviour expert Temple Grandin.
Speaking at the ceremony, ABP’s George Mullan congratulated all the finalists:
“These young people have shown curiosity, teamwork and pride in local agriculture. They’re exactly what the agri-food sector needs for the future.”
2025 Runners up: Markethill High School
