THE POWER OF THE WORD (The President’s podcast) – #12: Anja Kastelic

The President first met Anja while preparing for the President’s Forum, where we opened a discussion on the sustainable transformation of food supply chains and achieving food sovereignty. At that time, Anja was still serving as President of the Slovenian Rural Youth Association (ZSPM), an organisation representing the voice of young people from rural areas, young farmers, and youth with a vision for the sustainable development of the countryside.

Today, Anja is a council member and a member of the Board of Directors of the Chamber of Agriculture and Forestry of Slovenia, where she is actively involved in shaping the vision “Our Agriculture and Food in 2040.” She also collaborates with the Institute for Control and Certification at the University of Maribor, where she works in the field of organic and Demeter farming, as well as with the NGO Rast, which is committed to providing holistic support for Slovenian agriculture, placing the farmer as a person at the centre.

Above all, Anja is a devoted farmer. On the Kastelic family’s organic farm in Dolenjska, several generations work together in harmony and understanding. Together, they create a story shaped by a deep love for nature.

With Anja, the President also discusses the popularity of farming among young people, the challenges they face, and their hopes and expectations.

You are warmly invited to listen.