The United Nations has declared 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer. To celebrate this recognition, we are spotlighting the vital role women play in agriculture. At Bunge, every day we see women leading with resilience, strengthening their communities and driving agriculture forward. We are proud to partner with these farmers around the world.
For United Kingdom farmer Sophia Ashe, one volunteering experience helped set the course for her future. Just one day into her time at a local mixed organic farm during high school, she knew agriculture was where she wanted to be.
“I loved it,” she said. “I remember going home after the first day and saying, ‘I want to do this.’”
It led her to study agriculture at the Royal Agricultural University and gain experience on several farms.
Today, Sophia works on a mixed arable and livestock farm in a farming estate in Gloucestershire, United Kingdom, where she is committed to responsible land stewardship.
“Farming is a privilege,” she said. “I feel responsible for managing and improving the land entrusted to me.”
Sophia’s approach balances sustainability, innovation and traditional farming practices.
“I believe in combining traditional knowledge with modern technology to improve efficiency while protecting the environment,” she said. “For instance, we let sheep graze winter crops for a short period. The crops recover quickly and often grow back stronger after grazing. This technique has been used for centuries, and research shows that grazing can stimulate regrowth more effectively than mechanical cutting.”
Sophia has seen the industry become more inclusive and supportive of women and believes one of its greatest strengths is the different perspectives it brings together.
“We need to value the fact that men and women are different, and that’s why it works,” Sophia said. “Women bring valuable strengths, including empathy, attention to detail and a strong sense of care, particularly in livestock management and sustainability. We also bring determination and a different perspective to problem solving, which helps drive innovation and balance in farming.”
Sophia is passionate about sustainable and responsible food production and is optimistic about the future of agriculture.
“My advice to young women is to go for it – be open to learning, stay determined and don’t be discouraged by setbacks,” Sophia said. “If you’re passionate about agriculture, it’s a rewarding career where you can make a real difference. Good, healthy food is the answer to just about everything, I think.”
Photo credit: John Cottle, National Farmers Union
