Advocating for Science in Agriculture | Jonwyn Ayres
Advocacy, Passion, and Finding Your Unique Story in Agriculture
Jonwyn Ayres is a rising star in agriculture, and her journey is one that’s as unique as the industry itself. At just a young age, she has already achieved a remarkable amount in the agricultural world—serving as an Oregon FFA state officer, diving deep into livestock judging, and even giving a TEDx talk about the environment and beef production. But perhaps what stands out most is her genuine passion for the industry and her ability to communicate that to consumers who may not fully understand the role agriculture plays in their lives.
Jonwyn’s story began in Western Montana, where she was born before moving to Oregon, where her family now runs a ranch. It was in FFA, 4-H, and junior breed associations that she found her foundation. As many young agriculturalists know, the road to success isn’t always smooth, but the skills gained from these organizations are invaluable. Jonwyn’s involvement in FFA helped shape her into who she is today, giving her the courage to stand in front of a crowd, speak passionately, and advocate for agriculture.
But it was her unique experiences, like working as a state officer during the pandemic and getting involved in collegiate livestock judging, that pushed her to explore a deeper connection to the environment. She grew up hearing about environmental concerns surrounding cattle and, at first, she hesitated to dive into these controversial topics. But Jonwyn’s competitive spirit and passion for agriculture led her to research the intersection of beef production and environmental impact. This drive eventually led her to speak on a platform as big as TEDx, where she challenged misconceptions about cattle’s role in the environment.
“We don’t really have that many consumers genuinely against us. What we do have is consumers that are genuinely curious.”
One of Jonwyn’s most profound pieces of advice is about staying true to oneself. She believes that true advocacy in agriculture is rooted in being genuine and passionate about what you do. When engaging with consumers, especially those outside the agricultural industry, she encourages a balance of science-based facts and authentic storytelling. Her TEDx talk, titled Cattle, Climate, and Conversation, became the perfect example of how to bridge the gap between agriculturalists and consumers, demonstrating how cattle contribute to soil health and offset greenhouse gas emissions.
Jonwyn’s approach to advocacy goes beyond just presenting facts; it’s about creating connections. Whether it's explaining rotational grazing practices, discussing how cattle convert grass to nutrient-dense protein, or simply sharing stories about life on the ranch, her goal is to spark curiosity and open a meaningful dialogue. She emphasizes the importance of asking consumers questions, too, allowing them to share their perspectives and concerns. Through these conversations, trust is built, and a deeper understanding is achieved.
As young producers, Jonwyn believes it’s essential to embrace every opportunity for growth, whether that’s stepping out of your comfort zone in high school or taking on leadership roles in college. Networking is key, and broadening your circle by engaging with people from diverse backgrounds allows for a more impactful exchange of ideas. She also advises younger generations to embrace social media but with a purpose—to not just speak to those who already understand agriculture but to reach new audiences who may not yet appreciate the value of farming and ranching.
Jonwyn’s advice on social media resonates deeply: don’t just curate a feed of perfect livestock photos or business promotions. Instead, show the reality of agricultural life—cattle on green grass, working on the land, and the daily tasks that make up a rancher’s life. It’s about sharing your story in an authentic way, helping others see the real side of agriculture and creating lasting connections.
Her message is clear—being real, being passionate, and embracing every conversation as an opportunity to educate and connect are the keys to successful advocacy in agriculture. Jonwyn is proving that age doesn’t define impact, and that a genuine love for the land and its creatures can lead to significant change, one conversation at a time.
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/jonwyn.ayres/
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/jonwyn.ayres
Jonwyn’s Tedx Talk- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jNYmkqywttI
