Agricultural Financial Services (AFSC) has created an agricultural award to recognize the key roles women play on Alberta’s farms, ranches, and agribusinesses.
The award is meant to highlight the achievements women are making in the industry. Among this year’s awards distributed was Girouxville resident, farmer, and Northern Rural Chicks president Alexandra Brochu.
“It is truly an honour for me to be recognized as one of AFSC’S Women in Ag Award recipients,” says Brochu.
“I was honored just to be nominated so to actually receive this award, it’s truly a special recognition.”
Brochu received the award as The Community Builder. Following the isolation rural families experienced during and after COVID-19, she saw the need for women in agriculture to connect with one another, share experiences, and support one another. Brochu then founded Northern Rural Chicks, now one of the most recognizable groups that brings leadership workshops, International Women’s Day events, women’s markets, business sessions and mental-health discussions to the Smoky River Region.
“For AFSC to recognize the Women in Ag, who play important roles in agriculture in our province, it truly demonstrates AFSC’S recognition to celebrate and cultivate inspiring women in ag,” says Brochu.
“No other agricultural institution commemorates the importance women have on day-to-day operations. By establishing the Notables Awards, not only does AFSC acknowledge the 18,525 female farm operators in Alberta, but they also showcase the incredible dedication which these award recipients display in the agricultural sector.”
Brochu also mentors younger women within her committee, teaching them how to lead events, manage logistics and take on public roles. Because of her tireless efforts, Northern Rural Chicks is sustainable and continues to grow and blossom because of the great team they’ve created.
“Women represent 32.4 per cent of the total farm operators in this province, and this number continues to grow,” she explains, adding this is the second highest number in Canada.
“I do believe it’s important for women to support and promote one another in the agricultural sector,” she adds.
“It’s a unique lifestyle that can be beneficial for individuals and families. Agriculture is very diverse in food productivity which women are also very involved.”
The next Northern Rural Chicks event is scheduled for April 18 at the Smoky River Community Hall in Falher. The event is the 2026 Women’s Day She Leads, She Lives event.
“Community events are a great way to promote ag and mental health without passing judgments,” explains Brochu.
“It brings community members together for the betterment of its residents and it also gives us the opportunity to organize events that are unique, entertaining and educational.”
Brochu adds during the past four years, the Northern Rural Chicks have heard repeatedly from event attendees that there are a lack of mental health resources in the region and a lack of resources for farmers as they navigate challenging times.
“By organizing our community events and by inviting guest speakers, we demonstrate to our attendees which resources are actually available and where they can receive professional advice when needed,” Brochu says.
“Our events are unique in the Peace Country and I am truly proud of the work that we have accomplished so far.”
AFSC received 80 nominations for their Notables Awards from all over the province. From these 80 nominations, they choose nine award recipients including The Innovator Robyne Davidson, The Operator Laura Brown, The Ignitor Michelle Rigney, The Professional Dr. Brenda Ralston, The Promoter Beth Cash, The Maverick Lisa Kitt, The Emergent Jordyn Prior, The Notable Lifetime Achiever Jackie Rae Greening, and Girouxville’s Alexandra Brochu as The Community Builder.
A complete breakdown of their individual biographies and accomplishments can be found at afsc.ca/news/the-2026-women-in-ag-award-winners/.
“I would not have received this award without the support and patience from my husband, my three children Bobby, Derrick and Catherine along with their families, as well as past and present board members of the Northern Rural Chicks,” concludes Brochu.
“One person is unable to organize and implement such community events, and I am truly grateful for all these amazing people in my life who support and encourage me.”
Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter