Matthew Van Ankum

Matthew grew up on a farm in Howick Township, the middle child of a Dutch immigrant family. His father, a plant biologist, and his mother, a nurse, instilled in him a deep appreciation for nature and a caring approach to life. Alongside his wife, Danielle, their two sons, and his Great Danes, Matthew continues to farm, raising small-frame, grass-based cattle, sheep, pigs, and chickens. 

Over the years, Matthew’s farming practices have evolved with a strong focus on sustainability. He prioritizes quality lamb and beef production through direct harvesting of forage and seasonal grazing. Fertility on the farm is maintained through the application of liquid pig manure on hay fields, minimizing runoff. In the past three years, [Name] has fenced over 100 acres to extend the grazing season and optimize the farm’s setup.

Beyond farming, Matthew is an advocate for a more representative electoral system, believing that power in parliaments should better reflect the diversity of votes. He is involved in several local organizations, including NFU 335, the SVCA Ag Advisory Board, and the AVDSB Boundary Assessment Committee. In 2022, he had the privilege of representing the Green Party of Ontario in the general election.