Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program Dream Gala summer event unveiled
GUELPH – The Rural Ontario Institute (ROI) has announced this year’s Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP) Dream Gala and Auction will be held on June 19 at The GrandWay Events Centre in Elora.
The AALP Dream Gala is a biennial event that brings together close to 300 Ontario agriculture leaders in support of ROI and AALP with an emphasis on the current class.
This year, AALP Class 20 and Class 21 invite guests to experience “A Night at the Races.”
The event will begin at 5:30pm and will feature live and silent auctions, horse racing and a variety of games.
Auction items will be curated by past and present AALP Classes and will showcase a wide variety of distinctive experiences and unique items for bidding.
“The 2026 Dream Gala will be a night to celebrate and champion the future of Ontario agriculture,” said gala chair Tyler Denham. “Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the thrill of live racing, bid on auction items, and experience a night of FUN‑draising all while supporting the emerging leaders of Class 21.”
“We’re shaking things up for this year’s Dream Gala,” said gala vice chair Kayla Veldman. “Instead of a formal sit-down dinner, guests will have the opportunity to mingle and enjoy local food delicacies from a variety of food stations with open seating.”
“The AALP Dream Gala brings together leaders from across the agri‑food sector who see the value in leadership development to meet the challenges our farms, food systems and rural communities are facing today. This year, guests can look forward to plenty of opportunities to connect with AALP Alumni, sponsors, and friends who continue to support the program,” said ROI leadership programs manager Peggy Brekveld.
“AALP is an immersive leadership experience that equips participants with the knowledge, skills and network they need to help shape the future of agriculture, food and rural communities,” said ROI leadership programs director Gabrielle Ferguson. “We are grateful for our program sponsors, including the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness, and industry and commodity organizations, who see the immense value in supporting the future of our industry by investing in its leaders. We are excited to gather with AALP alumni and supporters for a wonderful summer evening as we celebrate agricultural leadership.”
Guests are encouraged to dress up in summer attire, including bright colours, fascinators and bold brims.
Tickets for the event are available online at aalpdreamauction.com.
Early bird pricing is available when you purchase your tickets before April 20.
To learn more about sponsorship opportunities visitaalpdreamauction.com/sponsors.