Meet Lillian Beres, a 15-year-old student at Lake Country Classical Academy in Oconomowoc. Her passion lies in showcasing beef and dairy cattle at various events, including district and county fairs, as well as the prestigious Wisconsin State Fair. However, her ultimate aspiration is to participate in the renowned World Dairy Expo held in Madison. To achieve this goal, she is working on enhancing the genetics of her show cows. Through hard work and determination, she hopes to make a mark in the dairy industry and achieve success in her endeavors.
Lillian says, “Being in the show ring at a young age is an exhilarating and nerve-wracking experience. The moment you step into the ring with your show animal, a mix of excitement and butterflies fills your stomach. The bright lights, the judging eyes, and the anticipation of performing well can be overwhelming. Yet, as the judge starts evaluating your presentation, you find yourself immersed in the moment, focused on showcasing the hard work you’ve put into preparing for this very event.”
The Excitement of the Show Ring
“My heart races as I lead my animal around the ring, trying to maintain composure and display the best attributes of my show partner. The cheers and encouragement from family and friends on the sidelines motivate me to give it my all. I rely on my training and the bond I’ve built with my animal to shine through, hoping to impress the judge and secure a top spot in the competition.
Beyond the ribbons and accolades, the show ring provides a platform for personal growth and self-confidence. As a young participant, I have gained a sense of responsibility and pride in caring for my show animals. The bond I have developed with my livestock has taught me about empathy and dedication.
In the end, being in the show ring at a young age is a transformative journey filled with ups and downs. It has nurtured a lifelong passion for agriculture while shaping me into a confident and well-rounded individual. The memories I have made, and the lessons learned have created an enduring love for the show ring and the world of agriculture that will stay with me for years to come.”
About Lillian Beres
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I am fortunate to live in a loving and supportive household with my wonderful parents, Jennifer and Sean. They have always been there for me, providing guidance, care, and encouragement in every aspect of life. My family is complete with two amazing siblings, Lloyd and Lacy, who bring laughter and camaraderie to our home. Together, we share countless cherished memories, from fun-filled adventures to heartwarming gatherings around the dinner table. Our bond is unbreakable, and the love we have for one another is a constant source of strength and comfort. I am truly grateful for my family, as they make every day brighter and fill my life with warmth and affection.
Q: Please tell us about your life and what you do (whether working in our community, a business owner, volunteer, etc.). How did you choose that path?
My passion lies in the rewarding experience of assisting my grandparents on their farm, Williams Homestead Farm. Spending time there has ignited a deep love and appreciation for agriculture. Witnessing the hard work and dedication that goes into farming has inspired me to pursue a degree in dairy science. I am eager to expand my knowledge in this field, learning about the latest advancements in farming practices and animal care. My dream is to contribute meaningfully to the agricultural industry and make a positive impact on the lives of farmers and their livestock. Working in the agricultural field will allow me to combine my passion for farming with my desire to make a difference, creating a fulfilling career that aligns perfectly with my values and aspirations.
Q: What do you love most about what you do?
Working with animals brings me immense joy and fulfillment. There’s a special bond that forms when interacting with these creatures, and it fills my heart with happiness. Every day presents new challenges, which keeps me engaged and motivated. Whether it’s caring for them, training them, or simply spending time in their company, the experiences are always rewarding. Animals have a way of teaching us valuable lessons about patience, empathy, and understanding. Despite the difficulties that may arise, the satisfaction of overcoming obstacles and seeing the positive impact on the animals’ well-being makes it all worthwhile. Working with these incredible beings not only fulfills my passion but also reminds me of the beauty and diversity of life that surrounds us. It’s a privilege to be a part of their world and contribute to their welfare and happiness.
Q: What was the most difficult challenge in getting to where you are now or in your life?
Growing up on a farm has exposed me to the stark realities of life and death. Witnessing the circle of life firsthand has given me a profound appreciation for nature’s delicate balance. Farming has taught me invaluable lessons about resilience and the unpredictable nature of the agricultural industry. The demanding nature of farming has also revealed that it isn’t a path for everyone.
Q: What is the most rewarding part?
Observing the birth of a baby cow and witnessing its first breath fills me with an overwhelming sense of joy. The experience is truly exhilarating! As the days pass, I take great delight in watching the calf’s growth and development into a majestic and beautiful cow. This remarkable transformation feels like embarking on a magical journey, leaving me feeling grateful and awestruck. The process of nurturing and caring for these adorable calves, witnessing their strength and vitality increase over time, is one of the most cherished aspects of life on the farm. It’s as if I am an integral part of something extraordinary. This connection fills my heart with profound happiness.
Q: What are some of your future goals? Do you have anything exciting coming up that you would like to share?
I am incredibly proud to share that I was honored with the title of Reserve Grand Champion for my Hereford steer. Not only that, but I also achieved first place in showmanship and received multiple blue ribbons for other classes I participated in. It’s an amazing feeling to be recognized for the hard work and dedication I put into preparing and showcasing my animals. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn, grow, and demonstrate the bond I have with my animals.
Q: What advice would you give to someone interested in doing something similar to what you have done/are doing?
Working with animals requires a great deal of patience and a willingness to build trust over time. It’s not always easy, but the rewards are worth the effort. My advice to anyone pursuing their passion for working with animals is to never give up on their dreams. There may be challenges and setbacks along the way. Staying dedicated and persistent will lead to fulfilling experiences and accomplishments. Building a strong bond with animals takes time. It’s a rewarding journey that fosters empathy, understanding, and a deep connection with the natural world. So, embrace the challenges, keep pushing forward, and believe in yourself and your dreams. With determination and patience, you can achieve great things in your chosen field and find immense joy in working with animals.
Lillian Beres & Our Community
Q: Who is an interesting person you’ve met here in our community, and how have they inspired you?
My grandfather, Lloyd Williams, played a significant role in igniting my love and passion for animals. Throughout my life, I have had the privilege of working closely with him, learning invaluable insights about running a successful farming operation. His guidance and expertise have been instrumental in shaping my understanding of animal care, agricultural practices, and the essence of hard work. The bond we share has not only deepened my appreciation for farming but has also taught me valuable life lessons. Thanks to my grandfather’s mentorship, I feel confident and inspired to pursue my dreams and carry on the legacy of our family’s farming tradition.
Q: Do you have a favorite coffee shop, cocktail shop, or restaurant?
My go-to dining spot is Kurt’s Steakhouse in Delafield. I absolutely love their steaks and seafood options. The quality of their dishes is simply outstanding, and each visit leaves me craving more.
Q: What 3 words would you use to describe our community?
Historical, Fun & Supportive.
For Fun
Q: What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I love anything related to Harry Potter.
Q: What is your favorite book, TV show, movie, poem, or song? Why?
I love the TV series Arrow.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My grandparents and parents play significant roles in shaping who I am today, and their guidance and support have been invaluable in influencing my life’s choices and decisions.
Q: If you were a drink (can be a coffee drink, alcoholic, non-alcoholic, etc.), what would you be?
It would be a hot cup of tea with sugar.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
I want to visit every state and collect a sweatshirt.
Q: What makes you the happiest?
My happiest moments are spent with my grandma, surrounded by her warm presence and the comfort of a home-cooked meal. There’s something incredibly special about the time we share together, laughing, reminiscing, and enjoying the delicious food she prepares with love. Being at her place allows me to me to truly be myself and feel completely at ease. The simple joys of these moments bring a sense of contentment and peace that I cherish dearly.
