University of La Laguna Launches 2026 Canary Islands Farmer Awards

The University of La Laguna has launched the 2026 Canary Islands Farmer Awards, celebrating the vital role of women in the region's agro-food sector amid the International Year of the Farmer Woman.

Aim and Criteria

• These honorary awards aim to recognize women under 55 who have at least five years of professional, academic, or research experience in rural or primary sectors, especially in less populated, rural communities.
• The awards highlight contributions to:
  • Food security
  • Sustainability
  • Economic resilience
  • Gender equality in agriculture

Categories and Special Award

• Main categories for nominations:
  • For individual women excelling in the sector
  • For initiatives promoting gendered knowledge transfer
• Special award:
  • Honors individuals or entities supporting female farmers over the years

Nominations Process

• Nominations can be made by:
  • Local municipalities
  • Associations
  • Institutions based in the Canary Islands
• Closing date: July 15, 2026

Evaluation and Recognition

• A diverse jury of experts will evaluate candidates based on:
  • Their careers
  • Impact on rural communities
  • Efforts to reduce gender gaps
• Awards include:
  • A diploma
  • A commemorative badge

Broader Impact and Commitment

These awards promote awareness of women’s contributions to rural development, aligning with broader efforts to modernize and empower rural populations across the archipelago.

This initiative underscores the region’s commitment to:

• Gender equality
• Rural sustainability

It aims to shape a more inclusive agricultural future in the Canary Islands.