From a small village in Slovenia’s Prealps to the heart of Brussels, Anja Fortuna has dedicated her career to ensuring that young people in rural areas have a voice in European policymaking. As Programme Manager at Rural Youth Europe, she works to address the challenges faced by rural youth, advocating for policies that reflect the realities of rural life and agriculture.
Finding her rural identity
A rural person that has found their way to Brussels," she says. Her journey into rural advocacy was not always straightforward. As a teenager, she struggled with her rural identity, initially distancing herself from her family’s farming background. However, joining the Slovenian Rural Youth Association changed her perspective. She discovered a deep pride in agriculture and the vital role of rural entrepreneurship. Her family's experience running a rural guest house and farm highlighted both the dedication required and gaps in rural policies. This realisation fuelled her commitment to making a difference at the policy level.
Strengthening rural representation
With over a decade of experience in rural youth organisations, Anja has seen firsthand how rural perspectives are often overlooked in decision-making. While serving as President of the National Youth Council of Slovenia and Vice-President of the European Youth Forum, she observed a lack of rural representation in key discussions. Determined to change this, she moved to Brussels, where she now works to ensure that young people from rural areas have a seat at the table.
Through her role at Rural Youth Europe, Anja bridges the gap between grassroots organisations and European institutions. "I bring perspectives of real life in rural areas and a personal connection to agriculture to European-level policy and advocacy," she explains. She is passionate about creating international opportunities for rural youth to gain skills, build networks, and expand their perspectives. Her efforts have helped many young people travel abroad for the first time, creating lifelong memories and professional connections.
I bring perspectives of real life in rural areas and a personal connection to agriculture to European-level policy and advocacy.
Championing gender equality in agriculture
As a young woman in the agricultural sector, Anja understands the additional challenges faced by rural women. "Young women from rural areas are often in an unfair position. Still seen as second-class citizens, many go through hardship to position themselves as strong and independent rural women," she explains.
She recalls with pride: "To this day, I remember dearly how my late grandfather asked me if I would like to take over the farm." It was an unusual recognition in a sector where women are often overlooked as farm successors. While she chose a different path, this moment reinforced her belief that gender equality must be at the forefront of rural development. "Still, many women cannot become owners of farms as they are not seen as capable of becoming farmers. And this is something that must change," she asserts. She continues to advocate for policies that support female farmers, ensuring they have the same opportunities as their male counterparts.
Shaping the future of European agriculture
"Farmers should no longer be the weakest partner in the food chain," she asserts. Looking ahead, Anja envisions an agricultural sector that places farmers at the centre, offering them fair incomes and a sustainable future. "The EU plays an important role in shaping this transformation, and decision-makers should not only include EU institutions and member states, but also stakeholders, particularly organisations representing farmers," she emphasises.
She believes that EU policies must adopt a ‘rural proofing’ approach, ensuring they reflect the realities of rural life. As a member of the European Board on Agriculture and Food (EBAF), she is committed to pushing for policy changes that empower rural youth and create thriving rural communities. "I am extremely happy to represent Rural Youth Europe in this space, and I hope that the directions set by the EBAF will be implemented in EU policymaking," she adds.
A lasting impact on rural communities
Anja hopes her work in Brussels will make a lasting impact, placing rural development at the forefront of European decision-making. "I would like to see an agricultural sector that supports farmers’ quality of life, ensuring they receive fair income and opportunities," she states. One day, she hopes her efforts will bring her back home to her small village in Idrija, Slovenia, where young farmers and entrepreneurs can build successful lives without needing to leave their communities.
Her message to young people considering a career in rural areas is simple: "Keep strong, be brave and do not give in," Anja says. “Use your energy and motivation to do the best you can for your community. And do not forget to have fun, be adventurous, learn and be curious. If you have not done so yet, join a rural youth organisation. It has changed my life; I am sure it will change yours as well.”
