International Women's Day: Sarah is paving the way for more female farmers

The 22-year-old is now working hard to show that it is an industry that women can succeed in as well.

Sarah from Mareham Le Fen, near Boston is currently studying Agriculture with Crop Management at Harper Adams University while undertaking work experience at agricultural commodities company Cefetra in Lincolnshire.

And she decided to mark International Women’s Day today by speaking about the increasing opportunities for women in the sector.

"I know it seems strange but farming is all I've ever wanted to know when it comes to my career", says Sarah.

"I've always loved being in a farm setting and feel extremely privileged to play a part in the sector and paving the way for more women to join.”

She says of her work with Cefetra. "They are a great company to work with and champion women in sustainable farming.”

And she says there is so much more opportunity in farming than driving a tractor or milking cows in an industry that offers a wealth of opportunities in areas such as tech and science, in which women already excel.

Simon Wilcox, Manager, UK Farm Grain Origination at Cefetra Limited, says: "Sarah is a great ambassador for young women in farming. For us, as an organisation, we welcome an increasing number of women in farming, they add another dimension to the agri world, are great communicators and can do everything us men can do, and so much more.”

Terry Pickthall, Agriculture Placement Manager at Harper Adams University believes, however, that the industry still faces a chronic shortage of talented staff to take it forward in future years, and is particularly keen to see more women come into the sector.

“Historically our industry has struggled to recruit female staff into more farm-based roles, but this demand is breaking down the barriers. As more female farm workers and managers blaze a trail and succeed, it further drives change and inspires others to follow,” Terry said.

“The proportion of female students studying agriculture has increased significantly in the last five years and so has the proportion of female students undertaking their placement year in a great variety of farming businesses.”

Sarah believes this is the ideal time for women to consider farming as a serious career option. "Brexit has given us more opportunities to develop and support UK and local farming and agriculture communities, and what we sell is unique,” she said.

”We've moved forward a lot and farming offers a highly rewarding future.”