By Tatyana Pavlovets
It was an absolute honour to be nominated for the Woman in Agriculture award, handed out at the Mountain View and Neighbours Women in Business Annual Awards Luncheon in Olds on March 7, 2025. The event, held just a day before International Women’s Day, was the perfect opportunity to recognize and celebrate the many women making a difference in the communities where they live and work.
This inspiring luncheon was planned and organized by a dedicated group of women from towns and villages across Clearwater, Mountain View, and Kneehill Counties. Their hard work created a wonderful event that brought together so many passionate and driven women from various industries.
A heartfelt congratulations to Tietsia Huyzer of Mountain View County, who took home the Woman in Agriculture award. Very well deserved!
A Moment of Reflection on Women in Agriculture
Being nominated for this award gave me the opportunity to reflect on the incredible contributions women are making in the agricultural sector—here in Alberta and across Canada.
According to the 2021 Census of Agriculture, women accounted for 32.4% of farm operators in Alberta, slightly above the national average of 30.4%. But numbers alone don’t tell the full story.
Women are increasingly stepping into leadership roles as farm operators, making critical decisions about crops, livestock, finances, and business operations. Their involvement is shaping the future of agriculture in powerful ways.
Many women are leading the charge in diversifying agricultural practices—developing niche markets like organic farming, value-added products, and direct-to-consumer sales. In Alberta, women-run farms are producing specialty meats, artisanal dairy products, and locally grown produce. They are also fueling rural economic development through farm-based businesses and agri-tourism ventures.
One of the nominees I was fortunate to share the spotlight with, Josee Kirk, exemplifies this spirit of innovation. She is the owner and operator of Kirk Alpaca Farm, an overwhelmingly successful agri-tourism destination near Three Hills.
Leadership On and Off the Farm
Women’s leadership extends beyond the farm gate. Here at CAFLA, women hold a slight majority on our board of directors. These remarkable ladies play key roles in advocating for agricultural issues, advancing education, and lobbying for government support. Their leadership reaches into local agricultural associations, cooperatives, and community programs, where they continue to drive change and foster growth.
Off the farm, women are also making significant contributions to agricultural research, technology adoption, and educational outreach. They are teaching new techniques, promoting sustainability practices, and encouraging the use of innovative farming technologies. Women researchers are advancing areas like crop science, livestock genetics, and environmental stewardship.
Champions of Sustainability and Mentorship
Many women in agriculture are leading the way when it comes to sustainable farming practices. They are passionate advocates for soil conservation, water management, and sustainable livestock and crop production. A shining example is one of our own directors, Deb Skeels, and her husband Doug, who were recently recognized with the Sustainable Grazing Stewardship Award from Clearwater County.
Equally important, women in agriculture are building and supporting networks that offer mentorship, professional development, and social connection. These networks are critical in helping women entering or advancing in the industry—reducing isolation, sharing best practices, and increasing success in agricultural businesses.
Looking Ahead
Women’s contributions to Alberta’s agricultural sector are varied, impactful, and essential. From farm management and innovation to advocacy and education, women are key drivers of the industry’s success. Their leadership continues to shape and diversify agriculture in the province, ensuring a vibrant future for generations to come.
I am proud to stand among these women and am deeply grateful for the recognition this nomination represents. Together, we are building a stronger, more inclusive, and more innovative agricultural community.
