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Aspiring Rural Leader of the Year Finalists 2024

Winner: Katie Grist, Devon

Katie is an exemplary leader, dedicated to uniting the Haldon group of YFCs, supporting local clubs, and empowering its members.

With a background as the County Sports and Social Chair and Club and Group Secretary, Katie recognised the challenges facing several clubs within the Haldon group. Katie stepped up as the group chair to provide hands-on support, engaging with club committees, attending meetings, and assisting with the development of club programmes.

Katie Grist – Aspiring Rural Leader 2023

Katie's standout achievement was her unwavering commitment to bringing the six clubs closer together by taking part in the an Entertainments production. She ensure there was participation from every club, even those that had never been involved before. Nearly 50 members collaborated to secure an impressive second place at the NFYFC Entertainments finals.

What sets Katie apart is her dedication to inclusivity, ensuring all members involved in the Entertainments had a role – from backstage to singing – regardless of their abilities. She also led the choreography, revealing hidden confidence in many members.

Katie organised group social events, established Tug of War teams for both men and women, and helped train a junior group team, encouraging collaboration between the clubs. Her communication and organisation skills significantly improved engagement throughout the group. Katie also took the initiative to train Public Speaking and Reading competition teams to county level, boosting members' confidence.

Katie's contributions reflect her genuine care for the group and its members. She has not only revitalised smaller clubs but has also created an environment of healthy competition and strong camaraderie across the entire Haldon group.

What the judges said:

Pulling together so many clubs to compete in the Performing Arts, getting them to work together as a team and bringing out confidence in others demonstrated brilliant leadership skills. Katie's work is truly commendable, and her impact will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.

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