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During a discussion on how women’s leadership is driving systemic change in agriculture, the panel spoke about how barriers could be overcome to make a collective impact across the agricultural value chain.
Sindira Chetty, digital editor at Farmer’s Weekly, focused on how narratives could be shifted to increase visibility through the agricultural media and on personal social media platforms.
“Many people fail to understand the power of social media. We have the audiences that are looking for information,” she said.
Chetty stressed, however, that it was important to remain authentic: “Talk about the positives but also point out the challenges.”
Regarding artificial intelligence (AI), she said AI could be useful and should not be feared, adding that it could be used for planning.
She advised, however, that users should provide AI with clear instructions and verify the information it provides before using it.
Nono Sekhoto, co-founder of consulting and advisory company Circle Generation, emphasised the strength that lay in collaboration.
“Collaborative leadership will set you apart. Being able to identify people’s strengths is important. If you can identify and build on those strengths, you will be able to empower [people],” she explained.
Sekhoto added that finding connections was equally important.
“If you keep seeing people in a group, or even challenges, as separate elements, you will not be able to find the connection; therefore, you will not be able to find a solution.”
Linda van der Merwe, seeds portfolio and marketing lead at Corteva Agriscience, focused on the role mentorship could play. She said that being a mentee changed her life.
“Sharing information and experiences must form part of the [mentorship] process. And when you have reached a certain level in your career, it is important to [give back by supporting] the careers of others,” she said.
Dr Tracy Davids, director and manager of commodity markets and foresight at the Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy, underscored the importance of inclusiveness. According to her, inclusiveness was about more than just focusing on gender, race, or age; it also encompassed the knowledge and experience in each of these groups.
She also encouraged other women to celebrate their own successes in their careers, support the achievements of others, and share their stories.
She agreed with Van der Merwe about the importance of mentorship and said the sector needed new mentors.
