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Agriculture has seen progress in recent years with more women taking on leadership roles in the industry. However, there is still a significant gender gap that needs to be addressed to achieve true parity. The lack of visible female role models in farming poses a challenge for inspiring the next generation.
Diana Overton, deputy managing director at Frontier, highlights the importance of having visible examples of women in leadership roles to show others what is possible. She also points out the misconception that women in agriculture are mainly in “back-office roles,” which can be frustrating for female professionals in the field.
Minette Batters, former NFU president, shares her experiences of facing challenges and criticisms as a woman in farming leadership. Despite initial skepticism and resistance, she persevered to prove her capabilities and gained respect for her work.
Vet Sara Perez, clinical director at Poultry Health Services, has encountered unwanted advances from clients on farms, highlighting the need for measures to support female staff in such situations. She has implemented support programs for mothers returning to work after maternity leave to ensure a safe and inclusive work environment.
To address the obstacles faced by women in agriculture, a focus on combining career development with childcare support is essential. Providing flexible working options, childcare facilities at events, and promoting a more inclusive environment can help women progress in their careers.
Efforts to increase female representation in farming organizations, such as the NFU and CLA, are ongoing. While some resistance exists towards quotas, informal mechanisms and support networks are being used to encourage more women to take on leadership roles. The goal is to achieve better gender balance and create a more inclusive environment for all professionals in the industry.
Overall, the Level The Field campaign aims to address gender disparities in farming by shining a light on the challenges women face and offering practical solutions. By providing support and opportunities for women in agriculture, the industry can move towards greater diversity and equality.
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SOURCE
Maria Sanchez completed her Bachelor’s degree in Plant Sciences from the University of California, Davis, in the USA. Her studies focused on plant genetics and biotechnology, with an emphasis on developing disease-resistant crop varieties. Maria has contributed to several research projects aimed at improving crop resilience to climate change and is now pursuing her Master’s degree in Plant Breeding.
