Introduction
In the lush hills of Colombia, Maria Esperanza Fajardo proves that women hold the power in agriculture. Once an industrial designer, Maria took her family’s traditional coffee farms to new heights of success through the use of modern technology and women’s empowerment. Her story not only highlights women’s participation in farming, but also exemplifies positive change across the agriculture sector.
Maria’s Beginnings
Maria took over her ancestral farms after a successful career in Bogota, where she learned the ropes of farming from her father. She realized that hard work alone is not enough, but the right knowledge, resources and networking are also needed.
Collaboration with Yara and Women Empowerment
Maria’s path changed after she joined Yara International, which promotes environmental conservation and modern agricultural techniques in farming. Yara trained Maria in soil care, crop nutrition and biodiversity protection.
In addition, Maria founded Sello Mujer, the first association of women coffee producers, which provides support, mentorship, and global networking to female farmers.
Key achievements
In 2018, Maria became the first female member of the departmental board of Colombia’s National Coffee Federation Congress.
Under her leadership, women coffee producers gained access to better agricultural technology and markets.
The quality and sales of their coffee improved significantly through Yara’s Champion Program.
Maria’s initiatives provided employment and self-reliance to women in local communities.
Maria’s message
“It is important to share our land, our story, and our hard work with the world. Women farmers are not just producers, but harbingers of change.”
Conclusion
Maria Esperanza Fajardo’s story is an inspiration of how with the right support and empowerment, even small farmers can make their mark in the global market. Her journey teaches us that it is important to increase the role of women in agriculture so that farming becomes not only a source of livelihood, but also a means of economic and social change.
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