I’m Isabella Cullen and I have had the honour of representing the Great Northern Exhibition and the Collingwood Agricultural Society as the Senior Fair Ambassador for the 2024-25 year. After the excitement of the Ambassador competition, Nolan (our Junior Ambassador) and I were whisked away into the whirlwind of fair fun for the weekend. We handed out ribbons and awards, met many of the fair’s fantastic vendors, waved the flags for the truck and tractor pulls, rode horses and horse-drawn carriages, and even participated in a tractor parade! The fair weekend was definitely filled with lots to do and it was so much fun! One of my highlights was explaining the ambassador program and helping to educate people on the agricultural aspects of our fair.
As the year continued, Nolan and I attended more events like our AGM, Christmas parades, and dinners. I had a wonderful time at the parades and loved waving and wishing people a happy holiday. My favorite event was the OAAS Convention where I had the opportunity to meet my fellow fair ambassadors ahead of the Canadian National Exhibition competition. During the weekend I got to network with people from all over Ontario, attend round table discussions and seminars and see what happens “behind the scenes” to make fairs so successful!
The Ambassador program is remarkable and so are the women that run it! They did an extremely good job of keeping us well-fed, happy, and of course, organized, and punctual. The Ambassador program helps young people gain confidence, develop leadership skills, and learn more about agriculture and community service. I can proudly say that I have improved in all three of these areas and I would highly recommend being an ambassador to anyone; the GNE would love to have you!
Finally I would like to thank everyone who encouraged, supported and helped me navigate this new experience. It has been a year of exciting opportunities and growth. I am grateful for the wonderful chaperone committee members, fair volunteers, and sponsors who help make the Ambassador program happen! And to Nolan who did a phenomenal job as Junior Ambassador, thanks for your support and an amazing year!
-Isabella Cullen