Women in Farming

I love being a woman in agriculture. My own breakthrough came when I stopped trying to copy the masculinity of my peers in order to feel worthy. I accepted that being a woman with my own skillset was worthy enough.

Ag is tough enough, so collectively we need to focus on supporting each other and encouraging a good environment for the next generation to work in, regardless of gender. There are bigger battles to face.

Taking a leap into livestock farming was the best choice I've ever made. Working for a farm that appreciates your work means a lot as a female in the industry. I would always support another female stepping into agriculture.

Hoof trimming has largely been a male-dominated career. The number one priority is the welfare and it doesn't matter what sex you are, you can and should deliver the very best for these farm animals.

I've been in agriculture all my working life. Never have I felt like I am equal to the men that run this industry, despite being qualified, experienced and an expert in my area of work. It doesn't matter. I'm not given the same respect, airtime or opportunities as my male counterparts.

I personally haven't been a victim of sexism in the farming industry, everywhere I've worked helped/worked. Everyone has been extremely supportive and helpful pushing me to do my best.

These women are the through stones of our UK farming industry, inspiring the future generation of farmers by simply being themselves and doing what they love.

To me, female farmers embody strength and capability, proving time and again that our resilience, skill, and dedication make us an indispensable force in farming and feeding our country.

I would highly recommend to any women who are interested in going down the agriculture route to go for it.

There will always be individuals who will question your ability. It's your job to prove them wrong by showing what you bring to the table.

I've been told many times I have to "prove myself" as they've never employed a woman. In this day and ae we shouldn't be judged for what sex we are or what we wear.

Being a new entrant farmer is tough enough without being asked at every meeting who your husband, father or brother is! But our advice after two years would be that being a female farmer is totally achievable and the perceived barriers are generally reinforced by prejudice rather than reality.