Champions of Change: Celebrating Outstanding Women Master Trainers Transforming Agribusiness

In rural communities across the world, agriculture is not just a livelihood but a vital part of heritage. Women, long considered the backbone of smallholder farming, are being recognised for their leadership roles and empowering their peers with the skills to build resilient agribusinesses. This International Women’s Day 2025, under the theme, “Accelerate Action,” the Agri-Business Facility for Africa (ABF) project highlights the achievements of three exceptional women who are transforming agribusiness in their respective countries. From the farmlands of Nigeria to the lush fields of Madagascar and the arid landscapes of Tunisia, these Master Trainers of the Farmer Business School (FBS) are driving innovation and change in rural communities.

Vololona Ravelonjatovo: Breaking Barriers in Madagascar
In Madagascar, where food security and agricultural development present ongoing challenges, Vololona Ravelonjatovo is a symbol of empowerment and resilience. As an FBS Master Trainer, she is reshaping the future of agribusiness by creating pathways for women to take on leadership roles. Vololona is breaking barriers in a sector traditionally dominated by men, ensuring women have the tools to succeed.

“I’ve received feedback from many women trainers who told me that my story inspired them to push beyond their own limits,” Vololona shares.

Read more about Vololona's journey.

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Dalila Dalhoumi: Shaping the Future of Women Agripreneurs in Tunisia
Dalila Dalhoumi’s work in Tunisia reflects her unwavering commitment to uplifting rural women. Starting in rural Tunisia, she observed firsthand the struggles small-scale women farmers faced, limited access to resources and training. As an FBS Master Trainer, Dalila is transforming this reality, equipping women with the tools to succeed in agribusiness. She dreams of a Tunisia where women farmers have equal access to finance, technology, and markets.

"I dream of a Tunisia where smallholder farmers, especially women, have access to finance, technology, and markets, empowering them to make decisions that positively impact their communities," Dalila says.

Read more about Dalila's journey.

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Iretiolu Olufunmilola Odi: Empowering Women Farmers in Nigeria
In Nigeria, Iretiolu Olufunmilola Odi is leading a quiet revolution from the ground up. As a passionate agribusiness professional and Master Trainer, Iretiolu has directly impacted over 9,000 farmers, many of whom are women. Her work focuses on financial literacy, market access, and empowering women farmers to break free from the constraints that have limited their success.

"When women have access to knowledge and resources, they don’t just improve their own lives, they uplift entire communities. Seeing this transformation firsthand keeps me motivated," Iretiolu shares.

Read more about Iretiolu's journey.

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Accelerating Change, One Farmer at a Time
These incredible women: Vololona Ravelonjatovo, Dalila Dalhoumi, and Iretiolu Olufunmilola Odi, who are only some of many agents of change, are also exemplifying what it means to accelerate action in the agribusiness sector. Through their dedication as Master Trainers, they are not just teaching essential skills but also dismantling long-standing barriers for women in agriculture. As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, we honour their work and the profound impact they are making in their communities.