Caroline Barr represents YFCU at Rural Youth Europe Autumn Seminar
The Young Farmers Clubs of Ulster (YFCU) were honoured to send two of their members to Finland to represent the organisation at the Rural Youth Europe Autumn Seminar, hosted in collaboration with 4H Finland.
Grace Cotton (Crumlin YFC) and Caroline Barr (Garvagh YFC) embarked on an exciting international experience and hope that by sharing their story with fellow YFCU members, that they will encourage others to avail of the opportunities the YFCU travel programme offers. The two Girls travelled to Eerikkilä Sport & Outdoor Resort in Tammela on Saturday 10th October 2026 to take part in the week-long seminar.
Bringing young people together from across Europe, this year’s seminar centred around the theme ‘AI and I: Training our Critical Eye’, exploring the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI), leadership and the importance of critical thinking in an increasingly digital world. Throughout the week, participants took part in a range of interactive workshops and discussions, working collaboratively to develop an educational game and resource designed to help young people identify AI-generated media and think critically about the information they encounter online. Reflecting on the experience, Caroline said: “It was a fantastic opportunity to learn more about Artificial Intelligence and how it is shaping the world around us. Working alongside young people from different countries was particularly interesting, as we were able to share ideas, learn from one another and develop a resource that will hopefully help other young people become more aware of AI and the importance of questioning what they see online.”
Alongside the educational programme, there were plenty of opportunities to experience Finnish culture and build friendships with fellow participants. The busy social programme included an international buffet, where everyone brought food and drinks from their home countries, an organisations fair showcasing the different youth organisations represented, a traditional Finnish sauna experience followed by an ice-cold dip in the lake, and an evening in the forest cooking sausages and making s’mores around the campfire.
Participants also enjoyed a traditional Finnish sitz party, a movie night and a costume gala to bring the week to a close. One particularly memorable evening saw the group briefly catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
There was even time for some friendly sporting competition, with participants taking part in a range of activities at the resort, including floorball. Caroline was delighted to report a victory for the Four Nations team against the rest of Europe, despite the team being relatively new to the sport!
An excursion day also provided an insight into Finnish innovation, agriculture and enterprise. The group began at a Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) research centre in Jokioinen, where they learned about the use of smart farming technologies, including how AI and digital systems can assist with machinery operation, data collection and farm planning. They also explored the centre’s work involving digesters and biogas production. The group then visited Nuutajärvi Glass Village, home to Finland’s oldest glass factory, dating back to the 1850s. Recognised as the birthplace of Finnish glass design, the village remains an active glassblowing studio and gallery, giving participants the opportunity to admire the work of local artists.
The excursion continued to Tampere, where participants visited Startup. Tampere to learn about the support available to businesses working with AI and young entrepreneurs. A presentation from Spogen AI and an introduction to the famous Valtra Talking Tractor highlighted some of the innovative ways Artificial Intelligence is being developed and applied in Finland. The Girls enjoyed a tour of the facilities before having some free time to explore Tampere, including its indoor markets, craft village and local shops, while sampling some traditional Finnish food.
Summing up her experience, Caroline said: “The week was an incredible experience, filled with fun, new friendships and cultural experiences. It was great to meet so many like-minded young people from across Europe, learn about their different cultures and bring home new ideas and perspectives. I am incredibly grateful to the YFCU for the opportunity given to Grace and me to travel to the Autumn Seminar. It is an experience I would highly recommend to anyone who gets the chance!”
The Rural Youth Europe Autumn Seminar provided Caroline and Grace with a valuable opportunity to develop new skills, broaden their understanding of emerging technologies and strengthen international connections, while proudly representing YFCU.
