During Rural Ontario Week, Lisa Thompson, MPP for Huron-Bruce and Ontario’s Minister of Rural Affairs, recognized ten women from across Huron-Bruce for their contributions to agriculture and their rural communities as part of the International Year of the Woman Farmer at the International Plowing Match & Expo held in Walkerton.
“Women have always been an integral part of agriculture and rural life here in Huron-Bruce, and this year provides a special opportunity to recognize the women who continue to strengthen our farms, businesses and communities,” said Lisa Thompson, MPP for Huron-Bruce and Minister of Rural Affairs. “I am proud to recognize these ten women for the leadership, dedication and hard work they bring to our rural communities. Their contributions are helping build a strong future for agriculture and rural Ontario.”
From working on the farm and supporting local food production to taking on leadership roles in their communities, women contribute to every aspect of Ontario’s agricultural sector. The International Year of the Woman Farmer is an opportunity to shine a light on these contributions and ensure the stories and achievements of women in agriculture are celebrated.
Following the recognition ceremony, Bonnie Sitter shared her reflections from her book, Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz: Memories of Ontario Farmerettes, which captures the experiences and contributions of the women who participated in Ontario’s Farmerette program during the Second World War. The stories in Sitter’s book provided a meaningful connection to the ten women recognized in Huron-Bruce, highlighting how the role of women in agriculture has continued to evolve while their dedication, resilience and commitment to rural communities remain constant.
Rural Ontario Week runs from September 20th to 26th (2026), shining a spotlight on the people, businesses, organizations and communities that make a difference across Rural Ontario.
