The esteemed Repsol Guide acknowledges the significant contributions of the island’s producers as part of the upcoming International Women’s Day on March 8. This recognition comes just under a month before the SOLES GALA in Tenerife on March 17 at the Guimerá Theatre in Santa Cruz, showcasing the stories of six exceptional individuals during an event held last Wednesday at the La Calabacera estate of Isora Guide. The six farmers, livestock breeders, and winemakers involved in this initiative epitomise a deep love and respect for their heritage and environment, inspiring younger generations to sustain these traditions.
Key Figures
Dulce Acevedo (La Calabacera), Pilar Carballo (Finca La Jara), Carmen Gloria Ferrera (Bodega Ferrera), Fatima Hernández (Bodega Loher), Mary Tovar (Queseía El Isorano), and Nieves Estévez (Mieles Giovanni) represent the six women honoured by the Repsol guide for their production efforts on the island.
Statistics
Women constitute 29% of the 14,190 members of the Agricultural sector registered with Social Security in the Canary Islands (as of January 2025), a figure similarly reflected in Tenerife. A few years ago, the Cabildo initiated the Rural Women of Tenerife project, aimed at enhancing visibility, training, and creating shared spaces to combat prevalent professional isolation often experienced in rural areas.
Heritage
The Vice President and Insular Tourism advisor, Lope Afonso, underscores the vital role of rural women in “maintaining traditions, boosting the economy, and advancing equality within their communities.” He emphasises that “their daily efforts serve as a cornerstone for Tenerife’s development.” Furthermore, “through their dedication, they have successfully preserved our traditions, innovated within their fields, and bolstered the local economy.”
Excellence
Afonso adds that, “from the mountains to the coast, their efforts ensure that the island’s products reach our tables and the global market, with the quality and authenticity that defines us.” He concludes by stating: “It is crucial to continue supporting them, removing obstacles, and creating opportunities for them to flourish and shape the future of our primary sector and creative industries.” Dimple Melwani, the CEO of Tourism of Tenerife, asserts that recognising the value and contributions of rural women is essential for promoting agricultural advancement and educating younger generations on their important roles.
Indispensable
María Ritter, director of the Repsol Guide, highlights that “the contribution of women in production has proven to be vital in defending the identity of our territory. They possess the drive and ambition to connect with one another, share knowledge, and inspire the younger generation to ensure these indispensable roles are not lost.”
Sustainable Sun
Yesterday, the Sustainable Sun Awards 2025 were revealed on the island. This fifth edition notably honoured four restaurants committed to the fight against climate change, including Lecture of the Fire in the plains of Aridane, La Palma.
