Farm Forward

Saturday, November 8, 2025 | 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM | Edmonton EXPO Centre

Weathering the Storm – Developing Mental Resilience in Ag

Lesley Kelly

Lesley Kelly is an entrepreneur, mental health advocate, and farmer based in Watrous, Saskatchewan. She’s the creator of High Heels & Canola Fields, a platform that bridges the gap between farmers and consumers by dispelling myths and fostering meaningful conversations about agriculture. Lesley understands firsthand that farming is a profession built on resilience—navigating unpredictable challenges while finding fulfillment in the work.

As a trained peer supporter and co-founder of the Do More Agriculture Foundation—Canada’s first charity dedicated solely to farmer mental health—Lesley has become a leading voice in promoting wellness across the ag community. Her mission is to build stronger communities through connection, compassion, and collaboration.

In her session, Mental Health in Agriculture – Building Resilience Through Connection, Lesley will share practical tools to help farmers navigate the highs and lows of agricultural life. While producers are quick to recognize stress in livestock, crops, and equipment, it’s just as important to acknowledge the toll stress takes on themselves. Learn how to build resilience, strengthen your mindset, and thrive through farming’s most stressful moments.