Growth, Community & Leadership

Monday, September 22, 2025

New JFAO President Plans for the Year Ahead

By Mary Loggan

Jordyn Domio was elected in March as the 82nd president of the Junior Farmers’ Association of Ontario (JFAO). With a background in biology and environmental studies, along with years of hands-on experience in greenhouse production and crop management, Domio has developed a practical and informed approach to agriculture and advocacy.

Now at the helm of JFAO, she’s focused on strengthening member engagement, building community, and creating more opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Better Farming recently spoke with Domio about her journey in the industry and her vision for the organization’s future.

Beginnings

Domio’s roots in agriculture began in the heart of the Niagara region, where she spent time at her grandparents’ farm, which grew cherries, peaches, tomatoes, garlic, and raspberries.

“Those early days surrounded by fresh produce really shaped who I am,” Domio recalls. “I loved eating what we grew – it built the foundation for my life in agriculture going forward.”

Her academic path led her to Trent University for a degree in biology and then to Niagara College for studies in environmental science.

“I’ve always believed that understanding the science behind agriculture is as important as the hands-on work.”

Domio’s early work experience also played a role in shaping her career in agriculture. “When I started college, I worked in a greenhouse as an IPM specialist and assistant grower. That’s when I realized I liked being in charge and taking on responsibility.”

The onset of the pandemic brought unexpected growth opportunities. “I enjoyed agriculture so much that I wanted to come back to it, so I enrolled at Algonquin College. One upside of the pandemic was that I could do the program fully remotely, which meant I could go to school full-time and keep my job.”

She credits her professors for inspiring her continued involvement in the agricultural community. “I had a lot of great professors who got me involved in the OFA and inspired me to keep moving forward in agriculture.

“Having mentors who believed in me made all the difference. They encouraged me to step up and take on leadership roles.”

Getting involved

Domio’s joined the board of directors for the Niagara Federation of Agriculture in 2022.

“Being part of the board opened my eyes to the bigger picture of agriculture in Ontario and the importance of advocacy for farmers,” she says.

Her drive to give back led her to help relaunch the Wentworth-Niagara Junior Farmers Club.

“It was a complete team effort getting everything up and running, and now we have a fully functioning club again. Seeing the club come back to life and watching members get excited about new events has been one of my proudest moments.”

Domio has also served on the boards of the Niagara Soil and Crop Improvement Association.

“I have a very technical approach to things, and being in a leadership role just came naturally to me,” she explains. “Getting to see how the organization works behind the scenes and how everything comes together has been a valuable experience.”

Domio says she has been buoyed by the support of her peers. “Everyone always encouraged me, and I tried to encourage others as well. When I was nominated for JFAO president, I wanted to help the club succeed and was ready to take on the challenge.

“It’s important to me that everyone feels they have a voice and a place in this organization.”

Plans for the future

As president, Domio is focused on making JFAO more engaging and accessible to all members. “I work closely with the past president, and together we’re aiming to make board meetings more efficient and engaging.

“We’re trying to make things fun again by creating events that bring people together – not just for business, but for enjoyment.”

Boosting member engagement is a top priority for Domio. “Our main goal is to get more people attending our events and to boost member engagement. The best way to do that is by meeting people face-to-face at things like the farm shows, social nights, line dancing, and fall fairs.

“Agriculture should be fun again. We’re all busy, so it’s nice to have a chance to unwind.” 

Domio is also passionate about keeping communication open and making sure members feel connected to their communities.

“We want a more fun atmosphere. We all have responsibilities, but we can still have a good time. Keeping open lines of communication and keeping members involved in community roles is really important to me. I want everyone to feel included and to know that their contributions matter.”

Professional development is another goal. “We’re here for each other, but there are also so many opportunities for training and professional development. You can advance your career and use what you learn in whatever way you choose,” she says.

“JFAO is a stepping stone for life in agriculture. It gives you the tools you need to succeed, but in a different way than other organizations.”

Domio is especially excited about the International Agriculture Exchange Program, which allows members to learn and experience farming overseas.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn and experience agriculture overseas. You get to see another country through the lens of agriculture,” Domio notes.

“It’s a great way to connect with people who share your interests and to build a community around that. It’s an amazing networking opportunity, whether you’re learning about dairy farming or fruit production. It’s all about building the community.”

Looking ahead, Domio is optimistic about the future. “There are so many opportunities for growth in agriculture, and I want to make sure our members are ready to take them on. With the right support and a strong community, there’s nothing we can’t achieve together.” BF