International Year of the Woman Farmer

The United Nations has declared 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF 2026), a global recognition of the vital role women play across agrifood systems. The Year spotlights the essential roles women play across agrifood systems, from production to trade, while often going unrecognized. Women farmers are central to food security, nutrition and economic resilience. IYWF 2026 raises awareness and promote actions to close the gender gaps and improve women’s livelihoods worldwide.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7dyfOrWrcoA

The International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026 aims to raise awareness of the role of women in agrifood systems and the challenges they face, including land tenure, financial and technical constraints, and limited access to services and education. It also seeks to encourage policies and investments that empower women in agrifood systems and to promote greater synergies among international initiatives supporting women farmers. - The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO.org)

As we also celebrate Women’s History Month this March, this recognition feels especially meaningful here in California’s Central Valley. Women farmers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and leaders are shaping the future of agriculture every day, balancing tradition, innovation, and community impact. Across the F3 Initiative, there is strong female leadership represented in every gear — from research and innovation to workforce development and local food systems — helping to drive forward new ideas and opportunities for the region.

Angie Estrada | Sweet Valley Produce | Merced, California

It is challenging being a woman farmer. In general, being a woman in any work environment, it's difficult managing work life balance as well as expectations - and because farming is consuming, it'll be your whole life. This is why being part of community farming, and being part of larger networks, is so important. I'm really grateful for the opportunity to work with each other, be there for support, and create spaces where we're able to not just talk about business, but how it relates to our life. We don't just speak, we walk the walk. - Angie Estrada, Sweet Valley Produce

Sarah Weil and her daughter | Twin Tree Farms | Madera, California

I think it's great to highlight women farmers. There aren't that many of us, and I think women bring a particular perspective to things. As a woman, and as a mother, I love that my daughter gets to participate in this operation. She gets to come and she gets to be part of something that's alive. I think it's important that all people are connected to farming. We should all have access to where our food comes from. Sarah Weil, Twin Tree Farms

Through the F3 Initiative, we see firsthand the importance of supporting women across the agricultural ecosystem. Through our work with partners, we invest in workforce development, research and innovation, and local food systems that create opportunities for women to lead, grow their businesses, and access new markets. Whether it’s through small farm support, ag technology development, or education pathways, F3 is committed to helping build a more inclusive and equitable future for agriculture in the Central Valley.

This year is a powerful reminder that strengthening agriculture means supporting the people behind it. Stay tuned for a series of video spotlights throughout the year highlighting women farmers across the Central Valley.

Learn more about the International Year of the Woman Farmer at: https://www.fao.org/woman-farmer-2026/en