Offsetting carbon emissions, the importance of eating quality and opportunities for food tourism were just some of the topics presented by this year’s semi-finalists in the ABP Angus Youth Challenge.

14 teams from 13 schools competed virtually due to Covid-19 restrictions. The teenagers had to present their ideas and displays on sustainable Angus beef production in Northern Ireland for an independent panel of judges.

The teams that progress to the next stage will be announced in early November. Under the guidance of ABP and the NI Angus Producer Group they will then take part in an 18-month skills development programme. They will be rewarded with a hands-on experience of rearing Angus cross calves and profiting from their sale to ABP; whilst gaining employability skills and knowledge of the beef industry. The proceeds of the sale of each team’s calves to ABP will be awarded to each group. One overall winning team will also receive a £1,000 cash prize for their school or club.

The competition is now also open for new entries from teenagers aged 14-16 years old in Years 11 & 12. There is flexibility to enter a team to represent a school, club, or society or as a group of friends. More than one entry can be submitted per school or club. Closing date for entries is 27th November 2020.

ABP was recently recognised with a ‘2020 Responsible Business Champion’ award by Business in the Community for the ABP Angus Youth Challenge. Explaining more about its appeal, Arthur Callaghan of ABP said, “We’ve had a great mix of young people from both rural and city communities taking part. The competition does appeal to those studying the GCSE in Agriculture & Land Use or a BTEC in Agriculture. But others are drawn to the opportunities the ABP Angus Youth Challenge gives to enhance CV’s for a variety of jobs and careers that the agri-food sector can offer, from food science; production; veterinary science; finance & business management to logistics and procurement.”

“Entrants do not have to live on a farm to take part. Along with the Northern Irish Angus Producer Group, ABP will assist participants in the selection of suitable NI Farm Quality Assured farm.”

FOR MORE PICTURES OF THE 2020 SEMI-FINAL VISIT THE GALLERY SECTION