The 'Global Programme for Small-scale Agroecology Producers and Sustainable Food Systems Transformation (GP-SAEP)' project, funded by the European Commission and the Belgian Development Cooperation, aims to dismantle barriers hindering agroecology adoption among small-scale producers. A pivotal aspect of this initiative is Component 3 (AERAS – Accelerating Agroecological Transformation through Rural Advisory Services), led by YPARD in collaboration with the Global Forum for Rural Advisory Services (GFRAS) and Access Agriculture. This component focuses on empowering 10,000 small-scale farmers in Agroecological Transition across Madagascar, Uganda, Costa Rica, and Ecuador. One channel through which this will be achieved involves engaging 20 young professionals who will serve as Agroecology Fellows.
The Agroecology Fellows are young professionals selected to bridge the gap between farmers, young entrepreneurs, small-scale producers and sustainable agricultural practices. These fellows are undergoing comprehensive training provided by YPARD through a series of modules specifically tailored to them.
Priscila Angulo Aguilar from Cartago, Costa Rica, brings a wealth of knowledge in agricultural and agro-industrial management. Born on December 14, 1994, Priscila's upbringing in a horticulturally focused rural town sparked her interest in agriculture, leading her to earn a degree in Agribusiness Engineering. She has actively participated in community projects aimed at enhancing local agricultural practices and has worked as an independent agribusiness consultant, advising small and medium producers on sustainable management practices. Similarly, Alejandra Rodríguez Morera, also from Costa Rica, has been passionate about agriculture since childhood. Graduating in Agribusiness Engineering from the Instituto Tecnológico de Costa Rica, Alejandra has collaborated on projects that enhance productivity in rural communities and indigenous areas while emphasizing biodiversity and sustainability.
María Elisa Ramos Velasc, an Agroindustrial Engineer from Ecuador's National Polytechnic School, brings her expertise in logistics and supply chain management. Her professional journey includes roles in public institutions and community development projects, focusing on supporting local entrepreneurs, farmers, and ranchers. Meanwhile, Jonathan Rojas Salazar, a specialist in Animal Production Systems Engineering, is dedicated to improving the efficiency, profitability, and sustainability of livestock businesses. His commitment to primary production systems is evident in his focus on both national and international markets.
Reymond E. Rojas Núñez, a technology consultant from Costa Rica, specializes in implementing IoT and digital tools to enhance family farming operations. As a fourth-generation coffee grower, Reymond leads a family business called Ruralcr, which aims to modernize coffee farms and empower rural communities through innovative technologies. His efforts focus on integrating data-driven agricultural practices, reducing environmental impact, and training new generations of farmers to effectively use technology. With over a decade of experience, Reymond's work bridges the gap between traditional farming practices and modern technological advancements, fostering sustainable development in rural areas.
Isaac Lopez Camacho, a 26-year-old from the mountain town of San José, Aserrí, La Legua in Costa Rica, grew up in a country surrounded by coffee plantations, bees, cattle, and various other species. He is currently a student at UNED University and manages his own business while also advising producers. Isaac possesses extensive knowledge in coffee cultivation, cattle and pig nutrition and reproduction, beekeeping, and the creation and implementation of bioinputs. As a deaf person, Isaac finds it particularly fulfilling to be part of a project that supports new agricultural generations and promotes environmental sustainability. He is eager to share his experiences and knowledge, collaborate on all fronts, and contribute to making agriculture healthier, more sustainable, and better for the future.
Ajuna Tadeo is the Co-Country Representative of YPARD Uganda and a dedicated advocate for agribusiness management, youth mentorship, and climate and gender equity. He currently serves as Platforms/Value Chains Development Officer at the Uganda Agribusiness Alliance, leading initiatives to enhance market efficiency and sustainability. Ajuna coordinates Youth4Agribusiness, designing and implementing training programs to foster entrepreneurship and innovation. With a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness Management from Makerere University, he excels in project management, digital marketing, and financial literacy. His previous role as Funds Advisor at Oxfam Novib and his certification as a Trainer of Trainers (TOT) in Agroecology underscore his commitment to sustainable agriculture.
Mr. Frank Mufuruki, a graduate fellow in the Department of Extension and Innovations Studies at Makerere University, specializes in agricultural extension education. With a Master of Science in Agricultural Extension Education and a Bachelor in Agricultural and Rural Innovation, Frank focuses on gender, youth, and nutrition-responsive innovations in the agri-food system. He has expertise in developing and implementing agricultural technology dissemination strategies and integrating ICT into agricultural extension. His work with the Amka Foundation Africa and the Gender Responsive Research for Agricultural Transformation highlights his commitment to innovative agricultural practices.
Emiru Jacob, an agroecology fellow from Uganda's Soroti District, holds a Master of Science in Agribusiness Enterprises Development from Gulu University and a Post Graduate Certificate in Agricultural Extension from Kyambogo University. Passionate about sustainable agriculture, Emiru volunteers with the Green Climate Initiative as a country coordinator and serves as a district youth ambassador for YOFCHAN and African Youth Agripreneur. His efforts focus on training and empowering communities and youth groups with agribusiness knowledge to drive sustainable agricultural progress.
Deborah Nabulime, an agroecologist and sustainability expert through AFSA, RUCID, and UYDNET, specializes in organic farming practices, urban farming, food sustainability, and environmental sustainability. As a secretary and Public Relations Officer at UYDNET-Buikwe, she connects with stakeholders to advocate for sustainable agricultural practices. Her role as a Trainer of Trainers (TOT) under ACSA, RUCID, AFSA, and UMU further empowers her to promote agroecological practices among youth, women, and communities.
Okello John is a dedicated biotechnologist pursuing a Master’s in Conservation and Natural Resource Management. Based in Uganda, he collaborates with farmers to promote sustainable agricultural practices and uses innovative solutions to enhance food security and reduce post-harvest food loss. His efforts focus on small-scale farmers in northern Uganda, highlighting his commitment to sustainable agriculture and community development.
Ambinintsoa Laricha Ninah Alphonsine, a Malagasy graduate in agronomic engineering from the École Supérieure des Sciences Agronomiques (ESSA), has quickly established herself in rural development. Leading the regional farmers' organization Vondron'ny Fikambanana Tantsahan'i Menabe (VFTM), she is dedicated to improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. Her work involves planning, coordinating, and monitoring activities while integrating sustainable practices into agricultural policies.
Nomenjanahary Fallet Pierrot, born in Faratsiho and now based in Miandrivazo, Madagascar, is a Senior Technician and Agricultural Advisor with extensive experience in the Menabe region. With a background in farming and education, Fallet is committed to supporting his family and contributing to the agricultural sector. His roles emphasize sustainable agricultural practices and community development.
Tongamisy Espérant Mariano, a young agronomist specializing in Soil and Water Resources Management, graduated from the Agronomic and Veterinary Institute Hassan II in Rabat, Morocco. Passionate about rural development, he returned to the Menabe region to work with the local NGO "Saragna." As the executive director, he focuses on improving food security, enhancing living conditions, and promoting sustainable management of natural resources. His dedication to reducing pressures on biodiversity and strengthening community resilience underscores his commitment to sustainable rural development.
The Agroecology Fellows are undergoing five online training modules designed to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively contribute to the agroecology transition and the AERAS project, while also fostering their personal and professional growth. These modules follow a practical approach, enabling the fellows to produce various knowledge materials based on their assigned tasks and responsibilities.
Module 0 and Module 1 were held in June and July. Module 0 provided the fellows with a clear overview of their main responsibilities, emphasizing communication and community engagement. The fellows will play a crucial role in promoting the project, raising awareness about agroecology, and fostering a network of young agroecology practitioners through the Youth Community of Practices (YCoPs), which promote AE as a bottom-up process, as well as producing communication materials, including the YPARD Cafes, for national youth engagement.
Module 1 focused on imparting essential knowledge, covering key topics such as the 13 agroecology principles and the FAO 10 elements, as well as strategies for managing systemic change for the agroecology transition. This module also provided practical insights into agroecology and shared key resources, including scientific reports and UN documents, to enhance the fellows' understanding and effectiveness in their roles.
The last module will connect fellows with the “AE mentors,” i.e. international experts and specialists who will support them throughout the project while sharing key insights, resources and connections.
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