A local youth recently impressed at the CNE Ambassador of the Fairs Competition in Toronto.

Out of nearly 50 competitors, the Arthur Fall Fair's ambassador, Kelsey Lennox, was in the top seven, one of four semi-finalists the weekend of Aug. 20.

Competitors' scores were judged on several criteria. A one-minute speech, a five-minute interview with judges and an elevator pitch were all drawn from to determine the victor.

Lennox explained when it was her turn to give a speech, she told judges about the long list of benefits she believes fairs like the Arthur Fall Fair have within their communities.

"I chose to speak about the importance of our agricultural fairs and how they build a community. So many positive impacts that can build up a community in so many ways," Lennox said.

"In today's society, when people's mental health is suffering so much, these fairs are critical to helping our communities grow and survive and thrive," she added.

Lennox added she is always one to speak highly of the place she calls home.

"I've always lived just outside of Arthur on a farm. The community of Arthur is just so welcoming and such an amazing community. I'm so proud to say that I'm from Arthur," Lennox stated.

"So many volunteers ready to help wherever we need it. Everyone's always got such a positive attitude. Super kind, amazing people," she added.

Lennox said the people involved were what made the weekend so enjoyable.

She went on to say the culmination of her summer couldn't have been better than this event she dubbed a "great professional development opportunity."

The perfect cherry on top, she called it, as she heads off to study psychology at the University of Ottawa this term.

Listen to the CICW story below: