By Jamie Martin
Women from farming and ranching communities across the United States and around the world came together in Washington, D.C., for the International Year of the Woman Farmer ACE Summit hosted by the American Farm Bureau Federation.
The gathering attracted nearly 500 participants and focused on advocacy, leadership development, and celebrating women’s contributions to agriculture.
Over three days, attendees participated in workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities aimed at strengthening leadership and encouraging greater involvement in agricultural organizations.
A panel of industry leaders explained the collaborative effort that helped secure the United Nations’ designation of 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer.
Speakers also stressed the importance of recognizing women’s impact through research and data, highlighting the AFBF Women in Agriculture Study as a valuable resource for understanding their diverse roles and future needs.
International panelists shared experiences from their own countries, discussing programs that have expanded opportunities for women in agriculture. They noted that social media and professional networks have become powerful tools for connecting female farmers and ranchers while increasing public awareness of their contributions.
Breakout sessions explored leadership, trade, agricultural labor, and personal development, providing attendees with practical knowledge to bring back to their communities.
The event concluded with visits to Capitol Hill and agricultural organizations, giving participants the opportunity to advocate for agriculture and engage directly with industry leaders.
The summit highlighted the essential role millions of women play in global agriculture and celebrated their continuing influence on the future of farming and food production.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-pixdeluxe
Categories: National