Join the WFA Mentorship Network in 2025

Apr 17, 2025
By Farms.com

Shape the Future of Women in AgriFood

The Women in Food & Agriculture (WFA) Mentorship Program, supported by Alltech, has once again opened its doors for new applications for 2025. This global initiative is dedicated to supporting women working in the food and agriculture industries by offering free mentorship opportunities that help foster leadership, professional development, and career growth.

Since its establishment in 2021, the WFA program has made a significant impact, successfully connecting over 1,500 professionals through meaningful mentorship relationships. The program is open to women across all levels of experience seeking guidance and support, as well as mentors of any gender who are interested in making a difference in someone’s professional journey.

The mentorship initiative plays a crucial role in addressing the ongoing shortage of mentors in the food and agriculture sectors—an issue often linked to slow career advancement. By encouraging mentors from various professional backgrounds, the program is helping bridge that gap while creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for women.

"Each year, we see the extraordinary impact that mentorship can have, not just on individual careers but across organizations. This programme is a key part of our WFA mission to ensure women in agrifood are empowered, supported, and heard," WFA’s Global Chair, Elisabeth Mork-Eidem.

Alltech, a long-time partner of the program, emphasizes the value of inclusion and gender equality as part of its commitment to a more sustainable future. The company believes that diversity and collaboration are key to sparking innovation and driving positive change in the industry. In 2019, Alltech adopted Gender Equality as one of its focus areas aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

"Mentorship is not a one-way street- it’s a collaborative journey that benefits both mentor and mentee. Everyone who takes part finds it incredibly rewarding. There are talented women out there looking to grow their careers; they simply need guidance and support. You can be part of that change," said WFA’s Global Chair, Elisabeth Mork-Eidem.

The 2025 WFA Mentorship Program invites individuals from around the world to apply as either mentors or mentees. Participants are matched based on their professional goals and preferences. To join or learn more, visit: https://wfa-initiative.com/.

Video: Women in Ag. The Promotion of Female Farmers through Social Media | Madalyn Thayer | TEDxBGSU

Less than 1% of Americans are farmers. The majority of those farmers are men. Many people have minimal experience with farms and agriculture. High schools are getting rid of their FFA programs and many colleges, including BGSU, do not have agricultural programs or classes. There is a new social media phenomenon where women are making content based on their farming endeavors and gaining lots of traction. Education is the one of the most important parts of agriculture, because the more people know the more they will emphasize with farmers and create policy that benefits everybody. Female farmers have taken to social media sharing their experience in the agricultural world. These women are breaking stereotypes and educating everyday citizens about farming which is extremely important for the future of agriculture. Madalyn is 19 years old and will be gradated with her bachelors degree in communication on December 2024. She lives on a farm and have spent lots of time working in agriculture. She has her own farmers market and love learning about all subjects, especially agriculture. She was on the BGSU Firelands Student government from 2021-2023 as a CCP Ambassador and was awarded the 3&1 communication excellency award in April of 2024. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community.