Network to innovate: Roots of Change - Young Women Transforming Agriculture
We are pleased to invite you to an inspiring online workshop, “Roots of Change: Young Women Transforming Agriculture”, which will take place on May 12, 2026. It is jointly organized by the Rural Networks of Estonia, Finland, Latvia, and Poland.
This time, you will have the opportunity to hear inspiring stories from young women farmers who, through their creativity, knowledge, and dedication, are shaping the future of agriculture in their countries. Examples from the Nordic-Baltic region show how rural life is evolving through new perspectives, diverse experiences, and the growing role of women in farming and rural entrepreneurship.
"Young woman are not the future of farming - they are already transforming it."
The event will highlight personal journeys, community impact, and the everyday realities of building a life in agriculture. Discussions will offer space to exchange experiences and reflect on key challenges, such as generational renewal in rural areas and the increasing involvement of young people bringing fresh ideas and energy into the sector.
Join us to hear inspiring stories from young women in agriculture, discover their experiences and motivations, and take part in a wider conversation about the evolving face of rural life.
• Real stories and practical insights
• New ideas for rural innovation
• Discussion on the future of agriculture
The event will begin with insights from invited speakers, setting the tone for engaging discussions and exchange throughout the session.
Discussion, Networking & Collaboration
After the presentations, the conversation continues with an interactive discussion, giving participants the opportunity to ask questions, exchange views, and engage directly with the speakers.
To support networking and idea exchange, we will use a collaborative Padlet board where participants can share inspiring ideas, highlight expertise, express interest in cooperation, and connect with others.
Simply add the title of your idea or area of expertise, include a short description, and leave your contact details to continue the conversation after the event.
Meet the speakers
- LATVIA
From Academic Career to Farming: Choosing the Harder Path. SIA “Ar B Agro” is a family-owned company and one of the largest greenhouse complexes in Latvia, specializing in high-quality rose seedlings and greenhouse-grown vegetables produced using modern, sustainable technologies. Founded in 2001 as a rose-growing business, the company has developed into a leading producer in the Baltic region, now combining large-scale cucumber cultivation with expanded licensed rose seedling production in cooperation with international breeders. Since 2024, Ketija Bumbiere has been working as CEO of her family’s company, transitioning from her previous role at the Institute of Energy Systems and Environment, where she worked as a lecturer and researcher.
- POLAND
Cultivating dreams: why the countryside needs brave women. Malinówka is a unique farm nestled among forests and meadows along the picturesque Brzeźniczanka River, where life follows the rhythm of nature. Its products—from honey to sourdough bread—are crafted with care and respect for the seasons under the dedicated stewardship of its female co-founder. It is also an inspiring story of courage and transformation, tracing a woman’s journey from city life to creating a place deeply rooted in nature, showing that living in harmony with it is not only possible, but truly fulfilling.
- ESTONIA
Teele Eskor: A Farm Guided by Animal Welfare. Alongside my veterinary studies, I took over the management of our family farm nearly four years ago. During this time, the farm has undergone significant innovation and growth in production. At the same time, we have remained deeply committed to animal welfare and working in harmony with nature. Our farm demonstrates how innovation and tradition can successfully go hand in hand. Starting out in agriculture as a young and motivated woman, you naturally stand out—but it also means you often have to work harder to earn your place and be taken seriously.
- FINLAND
Working with Nature: A Young Farmer´s Climate Choices.
| Workshop Coordinator Wojciech MajSpecialist in the Agricultural Innovation Department, Innovation Broker, Agricultural Advisory Centre in Brwinów Tel: 797 489 155 E-mail: [email protected] |
This time, you will have the opportunity to hear inspiring stories from young women farmers who, through their creativity, knowledge, and dedication, are shaping the future of agriculture in their countries. Examples from the Nordic-Baltic region show how rural life is evolving through new perspectives, diverse experiences, and the growing role of women in farming and rural entrepreneurship.
"Young woman are not the future of farming - they are already transforming it."
The event will highlight personal journeys, community impact, and the everyday realities of building a life in agriculture. Discussions will offer space to exchange experiences and reflect on key challenges, such as generational renewal in rural areas and the increasing involvement of young people bringing fresh ideas and energy into the sector.
Join us to hear inspiring stories from young women in agriculture, discover their experiences and motivations, and take part in a wider conversation about the evolving face of rural life.
• Real stories and practical insights
• New ideas for rural innovation
• Discussion on the future of agriculture
The event will begin with insights from invited speakers, setting the tone for engaging discussions and exchange throughout the session.
Discussion, Networking & Collaboration
After the presentations, the conversation continues with an interactive discussion, giving participants the opportunity to ask questions, exchange views, and engage directly with the speakers.
To support networking and idea exchange, we will use a collaborative Padlet board where participants can share inspiring ideas, highlight expertise, express interest in cooperation, and connect with others.
Simply add the title of your idea or area of expertise, include a short description, and leave your contact details to continue the conversation after the event.
Meet the speakers
- LATVIA
From Academic Career to Farming: Choosing the Harder Path. SIA “Ar B Agro” is a family-owned company and one of the largest greenhouse complexes in Latvia, specializing in high-quality rose seedlings and greenhouse-grown vegetables produced using modern, sustainable technologies. Founded in 2001 as a rose-growing business, the company has developed into a leading producer in the Baltic region, now combining large-scale cucumber cultivation with expanded licensed rose seedling production in cooperation with international breeders. Since 2024, Ketija Bumbiere has been working as CEO of her family’s company, transitioning from her previous role at the Institute of Energy Systems and Environment, where she worked as a lecturer and researcher.
- POLAND
Cultivating dreams: why the countryside needs brave women. Malinówka is a unique farm nestled among forests and meadows along the picturesque Brzeźniczanka River, where life follows the rhythm of nature. Its products—from honey to sourdough bread—are crafted with care and respect for the seasons under the dedicated stewardship of its female co-founder. It is also an inspiring story of courage and transformation, tracing a woman’s journey from city life to creating a place deeply rooted in nature, showing that living in harmony with it is not only possible, but truly fulfilling.
- ESTONIA
Teele Eskor: A Farm Guided by Animal Welfare. Alongside my veterinary studies, I took over the management of our family farm nearly four years ago. During this time, the farm has undergone significant innovation and growth in production. At the same time, we have remained deeply committed to animal welfare and working in harmony with nature. Our farm demonstrates how innovation and tradition can successfully go hand in hand. Starting out in agriculture as a young and motivated woman, you naturally stand out—but it also means you often have to work harder to earn your place and be taken seriously.
- FINLAND
Working with Nature: A Young Farmer´s Climate Choices.
|
| Workshop Coordinator Wojciech MajSpecialist in the Agricultural Innovation Department, Innovation Broker, Agricultural Advisory Centre in Brwinów Tel: 797 489 155 E-mail: [email protected] |
