2026 Board of Director – Call for Nominations
Your Local Farmers Market Society dba Vancouver Farmers Markets (VFM) is a dynamic community-based non-profit organization with a vision of a resilient local food network that values people and the land. We pursue our vision by creating vibrant and welcoming markets that build community, feed people, and support small farms and producers.
We currently operate a network of nine weekly neighbourhood farmers markets throughout Vancouver on the unceded territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) people.
Part of our work is to enhance access to markets for neighbours and producers. VFM is in deep consideration of how our operations can be more inclusive, anti-racist and equitable. We invite BIPOC, LGBTQIA2+, people with disabilities, and those who have lived experience building inclusive systems to apply.
Farmers markets are emerging around the world as essential infrastructure to address climate change, food security and economic uncertainty. VFM is building our position as community infrastructure with the public and government and moving into strategic planning in the fall.
This year, VFM will be electing three directors, each for a three year term.
The Nominations Committee is especially interested in connecting with candidates with skills and experience in planning, public relations, human resources and policy work.
Ideal candidates are:
- Committed to advancing the VFM mission, vision, values and strategic plan
- Collaborative and respectful communicators, adhering to VFM Code of Conduct
- Experienced with non-profit governance or have the ability and commitment to learn
- Familiar with farmers markets in Vancouver’s diverse neighbourhoods
- Interested in our regional food system
Expectations:
- Attendance and informed participation at 6–9 board meetings per year
- Active participation on at least one Board committee
- Commitment to at least 10 hours a month
- Participation in fundraising/membership promotion/sponsor acquisition
- Off-site meetings and external VFM Board representation as required
- Attendance at the society’s Annual General Meeting, All Vendor Meeting and any Special General Meetings
Nominations will be open from April 2nd, closing May 14th 2026, 11:59pm. Interested candidates must contact VFM’s Nominations Committee via email at nominees@eatlocal.org no later than the close of nominations on May 14, 2026. Please include “YLFMS 2026 Board Candidate Nomination” in the subject line.
In your email, please include:
- 200 word bio statement outlining your expertise and interest
- Written confirmation that if elected, you consent to becoming a Director and will comply with the Society’s Bylaws
Individuals who have lived experience as vendors, market neighbours, shoppers, volunteers, coupon participants or other stakeholders are strongly encouraged to identify this experience in their submission.
Candidates must be YLFMS members in good standing by Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at 11:59pm (at least 30 days prior to the Annual General Meeting scheduled for Saturday, June 6, 2026). This means that the last date to renew or buy your membership, if not already done, is May 6, 2026. More information about how to become a member can be found here on our website.
Further details on VFM’s board nomination and voting process may be found in the Society’s Bylaws posted on the About Us section of VFM website.
