What is a Fair Ambassador?
The Dorchester Fair Ambassador program was started back in the 1950s and was essentially presented as a beauty pageant. Today, that focus couldn’t be more different. In recent years, the program has shifted to focus on leadership, local pride and involvement, and offering a unique opportunity for youth to learn and grow in our community with the support of an active volunteer board. Gowns and sashes have been replaced with professional clothing, public speaking, and a myriad of learning opportunities designed to empower and encourage the next generation of leaders.
You don’t need to have grown up in Dorchester or live on a farm to participate.
What you do need is a willingness to learn by attending workshops on job interview preparation, public speaking, and time management — all of which culminate in the fantastic opportunity to have fun representing the Dorchester Fair on Thanksgiving weekend, at the Ontario Agricultural Society (OAAS) Convention, district meetings, and finally the CNE Ambassador competition in Toronto. We’ll cover your expenses, you get to participate, learn, and experience all this program has to offer.
The Dorchester Fair Ambassador program was started back in the 1950s and was essentially presented as a beauty pageant. Today, that focus couldn’t be more different. In recent years, the program has shifted to focus on leadership, local pride and involvement, and offering a unique opportunity for youth to learn and grow in our community with the support of an active volunteer board. Gowns and sashes have been replaced with professional clothing, public speaking, and a myriad of learning opportunities designed to empower and encourage the next generation of leaders.
You don’t need to have grown up in Dorchester or live on a farm to participate.
What you do need is a willingness to learn by attending workshops on job interview preparation, public speaking, and time management — all of which culminate in the fantastic opportunity to have fun representing the Dorchester Fair on Thanksgiving weekend, at the Ontario Agricultural Society (OAAS) Convention, district meetings, and finally the CNE Ambassador competition in Toronto. We’ll cover your expenses, you get to participate, learn, and experience all this program has to offer.
Requirements
Ambassador Traits
Ambassador Benefits
Contest Details
Date: 2024 Date TBD
Location: Dorchester Fairgrounds (4939 Hamilton Rd. Dorchester) – Gent Hall
Requirements:
1. Interview
Contestants will be interviewed by a small panel of judges about topics such as their interests, volunteer and leadership experience, and personal/professional goals. Please bring a copy of your resume to share with the judges.
2. Speech
Contestants will deliver a prepared 2-minute speech on any topic relating to:
3. Impromptu Question
Each contestant will be asked an impromptu question and give a brief answer following the deliverance of their speech.
If you have any questions, need more information, or would like to nominate a potential ambassador please contact
Sid Hicks at [email protected].
- You must be between the ages of 18-24 as of August 1, 2024
- Availability to attend the OAAS Convention (February 2023) in Richmond Hill, and the CNE in August 2024.
Ambassador Traits
- Outgoing
- Enthusiastic about getting involved
- Enjoy public speaking (or be willing to learn!)
Ambassador Benefits
- Opportunity to attend OAAS convention in Richmond Hill, CNE Program in Toronto, and various other ambassador programs.
- Represent our Dorchester Fair at community events and ceremonies.
- Earn student volunteer hours.
- Post-secondary/employment recommendation letter from the Board of Directors.
- A $750 bursary upon completion of your year.
- A $250 voucher to purchase professional/business casual clothing for OAAS convention and CNE.
- The chance to meet new people and develop friendships that will last a lifetime!
Contest Details
Date: 2024 Date TBD
Location: Dorchester Fairgrounds (4939 Hamilton Rd. Dorchester) – Gent Hall
Requirements:
1. Interview
Contestants will be interviewed by a small panel of judges about topics such as their interests, volunteer and leadership experience, and personal/professional goals. Please bring a copy of your resume to share with the judges.
2. Speech
Contestants will deliver a prepared 2-minute speech on any topic relating to:
- Fairs
- Rural youth
- Community
- Local Agriculture
- Volunteering
- Leadership
3. Impromptu Question
Each contestant will be asked an impromptu question and give a brief answer following the deliverance of their speech.
If you have any questions, need more information, or would like to nominate a potential ambassador please contact
Sid Hicks at [email protected].
Emily Hunter | 2022-2023
Ambassador |
Kaitlyn Farquharson | 2017-2018 Ambassador
|
Katie Ward | 2016-2017 Ambassador
|
Sidney Hicks | 2014-2016 Ambassador
|
