“Women are the backbone of rural economies, comprising a significant proportion of the agricultural labour force, yet they often face greater barriers than men in accessing resources and opportunities. Empowering women in agriculture technology is essential for achieving sustainable and inclusive growth.”

-UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)

Women in agriculture technology are driving innovation and making significant contributions to the industry. Recognizing the importance of their roles, several platforms provide opportunities for these leaders to share their knowledge, connect with peers, and inspire future generations. Here are some of the top speaking platforms for women in agriculture technology:

Women in Food and Agriculture Leadership Summit

The Women in Food and Agriculture Leadership Summit is a premier event dedicated to celebrating and empowering women leaders in the food and agriculture sectors. This event not only celebrates women leaders but also addresses the challenges they face in the industry. It includes sessions on leadership development, diversity and inclusion, and practical strategies for career advancement in agritech.

Women in Agribusiness Summit

The Women in Agribusiness Summit focuses on advancing women’s roles within the agribusiness value chain. It offers a forum for women leaders, executives, and entrepreneurs to discuss the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in agribusiness. With sessions dedicated to leadership development, career growth, and business innovation, this summit is a key platform for women in agritech to make their voices heard.

Global Agripreneurs Summit

The Global Agripreneurs Summit brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and thought leaders from around the world to discuss innovations in agriculture. The summit features an extensive program of mentorship and pitch competitions, where women entrepreneurs can present their startups and innovations to potential investors and industry leaders.

Food Tank Summit

The Food Tank Summit is an influential event that addresses critical issues in the food and agriculture sectors. It gathers policymakers, farmers, scientists, and advocates to explore sustainable solutions to food challenges. This summit’s unique format includes dynamic panel discussions that encourage interactive participation from the audience, providing a space for women in agritech to engage directly with global experts and policymakers.

Women in Tech Africa Summit

While the Women in Tech Africa Summit is not exclusively focused on agriculture, it provides a valuable platform for women in agritech to highlight their innovations. This summit unites women technologists, entrepreneurs, and innovators from across Africa to discuss technology trends and opportunities. Women in agritech can share their experiences and solutions, connecting with peers and industry leaders from various tech sectors.

United Nations Food Systems Summit

The United Nations Food Systems Summit is a global event aimed at transforming food systems to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. This summit offers a critical platform for women leaders in agritech to participate in high-level discussions on food security, sustainability, and inclusive development. By contributing their insights and innovations, women can help shape global food policies and practices.

Trailblazing Women in Agriculture: Celebrating Their Contributions and Impact

Beth Bechdol Championing Sustainable Agriculture

Beth Bechdol:Deputy Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)

Beth Bechdol has a strong background in agricultural policy and leadership. At the FAO, she focuses on promoting sustainable agriculture, food security, and rural development.

Shakuntala Haraksingh Thilsted: Innovating Nutrition and Livelihoods

A Trinidadian-Danish nutritionist, Shakuntala Thilsted won the 2021 World Food Prize for her pioneering work on small fish species, which has improved nutrition and livelihoods for millions of vulnerable people in Asia and Africa.

Spotlight on Women in Agriculture Technology at AgriNext Awards, Conference & Expo

The AgriNext event is a key platform for showcasing the latest advancements in agriculture technology, bringing together innovators, researchers, and leaders from across the globe. A standout segment in this event is the focus on Women in Agriculture Technology, highlighting the critical contributions and leadership of women in this transformative field.

The Women in Agriculture Technology segment at AgriNext is dedicated to empowering female leaders and innovators in agritech. This segment features a variety of sessions including keynote speeches, panel discussions, and workshops where women share their groundbreaking work and insights.

At the AgriNext Conference 2024 in Dubai, several prominent women speakers are scheduled to participate:

Shirley Shahar: Driving Agricultural Innovation

 She is the Founder of DANA Venture Builder and investment platform. Shirley Shahar is recognized for her expertise in agricultural and food innovation, with a background in marketing, business development, and mentorship 

 Dana Alomar: Reporting on Technology Advancements

Dana Alomar is a technology reporter at The National News, a prominent publication in the UAE. She specializes in covering advancements in technology and their impacts on various sectors, including agriculture

Dr. Christina T. Igono: Innovating Urban Farming

Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Eight Orbit Urban Farms (EOUF), Dr. Igono has extensive research experience in soil biogeochemistry, microbiology, and environmental sustainability. Her company focuses on innovative, sustainable urban farming techniques designed to improve food security and agricultural productivity in Africa.

Megumi Avigail Yoshitomi

Megumi Avigail Yoshitomi, the PR manager of the Japan Association for Cellular-Agriculture, hosted by the Center for Rule-making Strategies at Tama University, will be addressing the AgriNext Conference. Recognized for her achievements, Yoshitomi received the “30 under 30 Japan” award from Forbes Japan in 2020.

These speakers bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to AgriNext, contributing to discussions on technology’s role in advancing agriculture.

By focusing on Women in Agriculture Technology, AgriNext Awards,Conference & Expo aims to address the gender gap in the agritech industry, promoting diversity and inclusion. This segment emphasizes the importance of female leadership in driving sustainable and innovative agricultural practices

Conclusion

Women in agriculture technology are at the forefront of innovation, driving advancements that are crucial for the future of food and agriculture. Platforms like the Women in Food and Agriculture Leadership Summit, Women in Agribusiness Summit, Global Agripreneurs Summit, Food Tank Summit, Women in Tech Africa Summit, and the United Nations Food Systems Summit provide invaluable opportunities for these leaders to share their knowledge, network with industry experts, and inspire change. By participating in these events, women in agritech can amplify their voices, showcase their contributions, and help build a more sustainable and equitable agricultural future.