Gunma Farmer Yukie Shimizu Named an FAO Women Hero
Overview
Yukie Shimizu, a woman farmer from Ota, Gunma Prefecture, nominated by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, was selected for the FAO’s “100 Women Heroes in Agrifood Systems and Rural Development.” The recognition program marks the International Year of the Woman Farmer and selected 100 people from 609 nominations submitted by 131 FAO member countries. The award ceremony was held at FAO headquarters in Rome on October 15, 2026, and highlighted the achievements of those selected.
Key points
- Yukie Shimizu, nominated by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, was selected as one of the FAO’s 100 Women Heroes.
- The FAO introduced Shimizu as an agricultural leader who advanced women’s status in rural communities in Japan.
- Shimizu received the Yellow Ribbon Medal of Honor in the spring of 2026.
Overview
“FAO 100 Women Heroes in Agrifood Systems and Rural Development” is an FAO recognition program held in honor of the International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026. It selects women from around the world who have made outstanding contributions to agrifood systems and rural development.
A total of 609 nominations were submitted by 131 FAO member countries, and 100 people were selected.
On October 15, 2026, FAO Director-General QU Dongyu presented the awards at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy, as part of an event associated with the World Food Forum (WFF), where the selected individuals’ achievements were highlighted.
Details
Yukie Shimizu is a woman farmer from Ota, Gunma Prefecture. She serves as a council member of the Farmland Intermediary Management Organization, an Ota City agricultural committee member, chair of the Gunma Agricultural Committee Women’s Network, and chair of the Gunma Women in Agriculture Conference.
For many years, Shimizu has promoted the development of farm management and the active participation of women in rural communities. She has contributed to expanding women’s participation in decision-making, facilitating smooth business succession through the adoption of family farm management agreements, the sustainable development of farm management, and the advancement of women’s status. She also works to develop women leaders, promote food education, and build inclusive local communities.