Sophie's account of the Rural Youth Europe European Rally

The Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster (YFCU) were delighted to send five members to the 66^th European Rally, hosted by Rural Youth Europe, from Saturday 15^th to Saturday 22^nd August 2026. The week-long event took place in Grisons, Switzerland and saw participants from rural youth organisations across Europe come together to explore leadership, the growth of artificial intelligence and digital transformation in rural areas. The programme was aimed at empowering young people to understand the impact of AI on society and how it can be used in a positive way to strengthen rural communities.

Among the five members were, President Kristina Fleming, Jack Hunter (Moneymore YFC), Sophie Hawthorne (Collone YFC), Adrianna Coulter (Straid YFC) and Rebecca Cromie (Rathfriland YFC).

First time traveller with YFCU, Sophie Hawthorne explained that her expectations were topped when she embarked on this experience of a lifetime. “This was my first ever travel experience within Young Farmers’, and to be honest, I didn’t know what to expect, but it turned out to be an incredible trip”, she explained. “It was a great opportunity to meet new people and experience something completely different with other YFCU members. One of the moments that stands out most for me was staying with a host family and getting to experience Swiss culture in a rural village. It was interesting to see what everyday life was like for them and to experience the local culture beyond just being a tourist. The hospitality of the host family made the experience even more special, and it’s something I’ll always remember from the trip”, Sophie added.

Sophie’s advice to fellow members that are looking into applying for the European Rally in 2027 is, “Just do it! You will get to visit new places, experience different cultures and bond with fellow YFCU members. I have made friends now from across Europe which is something I didn’t really expect would happen when I applied. These travel opportunities are a way to step outside of your comfort zone, make lifetime memories and come home with new friendships that will last well beyond the week’s event”.

The YFCU takes the opportunity to thank Danske Bank for their continued sponsorship of sending a team of members to the Rural Youth Europe European Rally. The organisation was honoured to send Kristina, Jack, Sophie, Adrianna and Rebecca on the trip to represent the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster.