In many rural communities, there is a recurring sentiment: “We need young people to return to our communities.” This call for action is rooted in the reality that many Nebraska counties have experienced a population decline, leading to a loss of potential community leaders, entrepreneurs, farmers, teachers, and business professionals. These individuals are the ones who sustain and invigorate the vibrancy of rural areas. However, addressing this challenge is not as simple as it may seem.
The concept of “ownership” can play a significant role in reversing this trend. Through my experiences in agricultural education, entrepreneurship programs, and leadership development, I’ve come to understand how critical it is for young people to feel a sense of ownership over their actions, decisions, and futures. Ownership doesn’t just refer to property or assets; it is about taking responsibility for a project, an enterprise, or a task. When young individuals are given the autonomy to make decisions, face consequences, and learn through their experiences, they develop a deeper commitment to their work and their community.
In rural communities, many young people return with the desire to contribute and make a difference. Yet, they often encounter resistance to change and hesitation from older generations who are reluctant to relinquish control. This reluctance can prevent young people from exercising their leadership potential and from feeling a true sense of ownership over their community’s future. To cultivate the next generation of leaders, we must allow them to make decisions, take responsibility, and feel the weight of ownership.
One of the most effective ways to instill this sense of ownership is through educational programs that encourage entrepreneurship and leadership. In programs like the Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program at the University of Nebraska, students are empowered to pursue their own enterprises. They are provided with the knowledge and skills to transform their ideas into tangible businesses. This approach is not just about teaching theory but about giving students the chance to experience firsthand the challenges and rewards of running a business.
A notable example of the transformative power of ownership comes from the Gelato Girls, a high school team that participated in an entrepreneurship program. Under the guidance of their teacher, these young women were given the responsibility to run their own business. They were not simply following instructions; they were making decisions, securing permits, and pitching their business to potential investors. Through this process, they gained invaluable experience in leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making. Their journey exemplifies the importance of stepping back and allowing young people to take charge. When they are given the opportunity to make decisions and learn from their mistakes, they grow into confident, capable leaders.
This principle of ownership is equally important for young people returning to rural communities. If we want to attract and retain the next generation of farmers, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, we must create environments where they can take ownership of their future. This could mean involving them in local decision-making, encouraging them to start new ventures, or allowing them to contribute to the direction of their communities. By empowering young people to take responsibility, we not only help them develop essential skills but also ensure the long-term vitality of rural areas.
In rural Nebraska, many young people are already taking ownership of their futures through innovative agricultural enterprises. For example, Treaven Schneidler is developing a biochar enterprise to process cedar trees, which will add value to his family’s farm. Amber Stabb has created a direct-to-consumer beef business, benefiting her family’s operation. Chance Chrisman has returned to his family farm and is starting a barn-wood woodworking business. These young entrepreneurs are not only contributing to their family farms but are also building businesses that will support their communities for years to come.
The value of these enterprises extends beyond their economic impact. The true benefit lies in the empowerment these young leaders experience as they take charge of their ventures. They are learning critical decision-making skills, cultivating accountability, and gaining the confidence to lead. Ownership is not just a responsibility; it is a skill that improves with practice.
If we want to ensure that the next generation of leaders, farmers, and community members stays in rural areas, we must create opportunities for them to feel a sense of ownership. When young people are empowered to make decisions and take responsibility, they will not only contribute to the success of their communities but will also be invested in their future. They will not be seeking opportunities elsewhere; they will be eager to serve, lead, and grow their communities.
