Farming forward

SM Foundation KSK graduate pays it forward by sharing farming knowledge

- 

"Kailangan nating ipakita sa kabataan na sila talaga ang pagasa ng bayan."

Ricky Valdez, the youngest graduate of the 2013 SM Kabalikat sa Foundation's Kabuhayan (KSK) Farming Program batch in Cauayan City, Isabela, asserted.

Over a decade after finishing program, he continues to make an impact, now as a farmer-trainer of KSK Batches 382-385 in Tuguegarao City.

Starting as a farmer-student

Born to farmer parents, Ricky grew up appreciating the value of agriculture. Even before joining the KSK program, he was already active in a youth organization that promoted agriculture, food production, and healthy eating among the younger generation.

When he joined KSK in 2013, he eagerly immersed himself in the hands-on activities and lectures. Even if he was the youngest among his batchmates, he used the time on his hands to learn as much as he could.