Meet Jennifer Cocoa Horizons farmer and coach in Ecuador
Meet Jennifer Cocoa Horizons farmer and coach in Ecuador
Jennifer, Cocoa Horizons farmer and coach
From farming to coaching: how Cocoa Horizons creates opportunities for farmers
Jennifer is a 30 years old Ecuadorian woman from the Naranjito region. She studied agronomy to help her father on the 3 hectares family farm. She managed the farm for 10 years and was one of the first Cocoa Horizons farmers in Ecuador. She didn’t stop there as she was keen to continue her learning and become a professional in her field. After having shown great interest and determination, Jennifer was given the opportunity to become a Cocoa Horizons coach.
Jennifer during a coaching session
"I learnt a lot of new research developments in relation to cocoa production, as well as social and environmental topics. After enriching my knowledge, I apply it in my work, in my social surroundings and also in my work as a farmer."
As a coach, she now supports farmers in her community to grow and professionalize. She coaches them on good agricultural practices, environmental and social topics. At the same time, she continues to apply her growing knowledge on her family farm and is already noticing increases in yield.
On the family farm, I implemented an irrigation system, a phytosanitary pruning and a tailored fertilization plan. Our farm is in a stage of change. The yield is improving and this is reflected in our family finances.
The Cocoa Horizons coaches go through an intensive accreditation process covering agronomy, farming as a business and adult education. This improves their knowledge, confidence and raises their level of credibility to then accompany farmers to adopt best practices. They play an essential role in helping farmers improve their yields and livelihoods.
Jennifer explaining mapping to a farmer
Empowering women in the cocoa farming communities
The Cocoa Horizons program counts approximately a third of women farmers. For women like Jennifer, becoming a coach is a great opportunity to develop self confidence, increase financial income and act as an inspiring role model for other women.
“I feel happy, valued and important as a professional because I am achieving part of my goals. I do not perceive any different treatment. When I communicate with farmers they pay attention, listen kindly and are always thankful when I respond to their questions and concerns.”
Jennifer is gaining a lot of experience as a coach and is aspiring to pursue her career with a Masters degree to become a leader in agricultural research while staying surrounded with positive people like herself.
This job is a great step forward in my career. It gives me experience and an attitude that will be reflected towards others, and will certainly open up new job opportunities. I aspire to study a Masters degree, be a leader, be part of a research team, and have capabilities to contribute to society. Personally I wish to start a family, travel, be happy and always surround myself with positive people with whom I can share stability and peace.
Cocoa Horizons farmer and coach
The Cocoa Horizons Foundation
The Cocoa Horizons Foundation is a non-profit organization, third party verified, highly transparent on premium and methodology, based in Switzerland and established by Barry Callebaut. It’s an impact driven program with the vision to drive cocoa farmer prosperity by creating self-sustaining communities that protect nature and children. The Foundation supports the Sustainable Development Goals (https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment)*.
*The content of this publication has not been approved by the United Nations and does not reflect the views of the United Nations or its officials or Member States.
