Carman event to showcase youth, leadership and Shorthorn cattle
A young Lundar cattle producer is helping shape the future of Manitoba’s Shorthorn industry after being named Manitoba director with the Canadian Junior Shorthorn Association (CJSA).
Sigga Vigfusson, 18, said taking on a leadership role was important to her because it provides an opportunity to give back to the organization.
Her term as Manitoba director will last until she ages out of the junior association at 21. Vigfusson said she submitted an application for the role and was later welcomed onto the board.
“Being one of the few Manitoba junior Shorthorn members made me an ideal candidate,” she said.
She comes from a long line of cattle farmers, and her family’s farm has around 150 head, primarily commercial cows. She is also finishing her first year of Animal Science Technology, majoring in beef science, at Lakeland College.
“Within our herd, we have always had commercial Shorthorn influence, but in 2023 I purchased my first purebred heifer from Ray and Susan Armbruster of Birdtail Shorthorns,” she said. “I first got involved with the Canadian Junior Shorthorn Association through showing cattle and attending junior events, where I quickly found a strong and supportive community.”
Vigfusson has been showing cattle from a young age and has been an active 4-H member since she was six, stepping into her first show ring at age three.
“The experiences I have gained over the years have really shaped who I am today,” she added.
As Manitoba director, her role is to represent and support junior Manitoba members, help organize CJSA events, and contribute to growing the organization. She said she takes pride in the opportunity and hopes to make a meaningful impact — both within the junior Shorthorn community and personally.
While Manitoba’s junior Shorthorn membership numbers are relatively small, Vigfusson said the province has a strong reputation within the industry.
“While the number of junior Shorthorn members in Manitoba is small, our cattle quality and community make up for it,” she said.
She also believes the Interlake region has a solid Shorthorn presence.
“I would say so, yes,” she said. “At the auction marts in the fall, you’ll always see a few Shorthorn cross cattle.”
Although she does not know the exact number of local youth involved in the breed, Vigfusson said there are several young producers across the Interlake participating in Shorthorn programs and events.
“Through the CJSA, I have gained confidence, leadership skills, and the ability to connect with people from across the country,” she said. “It has helped me grow not just as a cattle producer, but as a person. The CJSA has also given me the opportunity to learn from experienced breeders, which provides valuable insight into how the industry has evolved and where it is heading.”
The CJSA supports young Shorthorn farmers by developing showmanship skills, leadership abilities, and networking opportunities within the agriculture industry. Throughout the year, members have access to events, workshops, educational opportunities, and scholarships. Membership is open to Canadians under the age of 21.
“Members gain a wide range of skills, including leadership, public speaking, teamwork, responsibility, and a strong work ethic,” Vigfusson added. “These are all skills that carry far beyond agriculture and into future careers.”
One upcoming CJSA event will take place in Carman on July 11: the Manitoba Summer Show. While Vigfusson is not directly involved in organizing the event, she said it will offer junior members opportunities to develop their skills through a full day of cattle shows, a welcoming atmosphere, and a chance to connect with others who share similar interests.
Organizers are expecting a strong turnout this year, and the event is open to the public.
Vigfusson said experiences like this are important for young farmers.
“The local agricultural community is very supportive, whether that’s through mentorship, sponsorship, or simply encouraging young people to get involved and grow within the industry,” she said. “Local events make agriculture more accessible and give young people the opportunity to get involved without having to travel far. They also help strengthen community connections and promote both the breed and the industry as a whole.”
She encourages youth to get involved, giving them the opportunity to learn, share, and explore a future in Shorthorn cattle.
“Without young people, the future of the breed and the industry would not be possible,” she added. “Their passion and ideas help keep agriculture moving forward.”
