U.S. farmer spotlights women's role in agriculture

Oct 22, 2024
By Jean-Paul McDonald
Assistant Editor, North American Content, Farms.com

Jeannie Damonte discusses women’s farm challenges at FAO

Jeannie Damonte, owner of Sterling Farms Nevada and a prominent figure in the agricultural community, recently took the global stage at an FAO panel discussion in Rome. She was the sole representative from the United States, addressing significant issues impacting women farmers worldwide.

The panel served as a precursor to the International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026, focusing on the pivotal role women play in global food security and sustainable development. Damonte shared insights into the difficulties women face, such as securing land rights and accessing innovative farming technologies.

Programs like the Women’s Farm2Food Accelerator were highlighted by Damonte as critical in equipping women with the necessary tools for success. “It’s an honor to represent not just Nevada, but all U.S. women farmers,” she remarked, underscoring the importance of such initiatives.

The discussion also explored ways to enhance global support for women in farming, aiming to bridge the gender gap and empower women to effectively tackle challenges related to hunger, poverty, and climate change.

Praising Damonte’s contributions, NDA Director J.J. Goicoechea noted the underrepresentation of women in agriculture and the need for providing them with adequate resources to foster community strength and promote diversity within the industry.

Damonte’s participation not only sheds light on the pressing issues faced by women in agriculture but also serves as a call to action for continued efforts to support and recognize their vital contributions to the agricultural sector and beyond.

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.