By Jamie Martin
To honor the International Year of the Woman Farmer, Women in Agribusiness has announced a new female farmer category within its annual Demeter Award of Excellence. The initiative is supported by the American Farm Bureau Federation, strengthening industry-wide recognition.
Since 2013, the Demeter Award has highlighted women who contribute exceptional value to agribusiness. The new category expands this recognition to female farmers whose dedication and leadership support agricultural success across the country.
“American Farm Bureau Federation’s Women’s Leadership Committee is excited to collaborate with Women in Agribusiness on this year’s female farmer category of the Demeter Award of Excellence,” said Isabella Chism, chair of the AFB Women’s Leadership Committee.
“As we recognize the International Year of the Woman Farmer, this award provides an important opportunity to celebrate the leadership, innovation and contributions of female farmers whose work strengthens the success and sustainability of American agriculture,” said Isabella Chism.
Women eligible for nomination must have a minimum of ten years of experience in agriculture or food-related industries. The award recognizes those who model professionalism, support other women, overcome challenges, and positively influence the farming community. Self-nominations are accepted, encouraging wide participation.
The nomination process is open to both peer nominations and self-nominations. To qualify,
- Nominees must have at least ten years of experience in agriculture or the food sector.
- Candidates should be positive examples within the industry, demonstrate professionalism in their work, and actively encourage and support other women.
- The award also prioritizes women who break industry barriers and serve as valuable resources to their communities.
The American Farm Bureau Federation’s Women’s Leadership Committee is promoting this opportunity among its strong national network. In addition to recognition, the award winner will receive travel and accommodation support to attend the ceremony.
The award will be presented at the Women in Agribusiness Summit, taking place from September 22 to 24 in New Orleans. Recipients will be notified in advance and invited to accept their award during the event.
“It was more than fitting that we extend our popular WIA Demeter Award of Excellence to highlight a female farmer this year in light of the United Nations’ declaration of it being the International Year of the Woman Farmer,” said Svitlana Synkovska, portfolio director for WIA.
“We encourage all women to apply for this prestigious award that continues to flourish and serve as a hallmark of elevating women’s achievements and strengthening their leadership influence across the ag and food sectors,” said Svitlana Synkovska.
Named after Demeter, the Greek goddess of agriculture and harvest, the award represents resilience, nourishment, and growth. This new category emphasizes the essential role women farmers play in building a strong and sustainable agricultural future.
Nominations are open through June 22, inviting the industry to celebrate women who continue to shape modern farming.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-jackf
Categories: National