Each year on February 11, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science is celebrated to recognize the contributions of women and girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Pioneering women figures like Marie Curie, Ada Lovelace, and Temple Grandin helped reshape the world of scientific discovery. However, women remain underrepresented in STEM, particularly in leadership and decision-making roles. Women face distinct challenges, such as gender bias, unequal pay, and limited access to mentorship, while girls in many parts of the world still lack access to quality education.
This gap is particularly concerning given the crucial role of science in solving the world’s most pressing issues, such as climate change, food security, and technological innovation. In agricultural science, where research and innovation are key to addressing global challenges, enabling the full and equal participation of women and girls is essential not only in achieving gender equality, but also in empowering them to shape agri-food systems.
In this article, we sat down for an interview with MJ Detera and Charlette Siega of Harbest Agribusiness Corporation. MJ and Charlette talked about their work in agricultural science, what inspires them, and their hopes for the next generation of women and girls in STEM. Through their experiences, we see how women and girls play a crucial role in building a more inclusive agriculture sector in the Philippines.
Pursuing a career in agricultural science
MJ’s journey in the field of agricultural sciences is deeply rooted in hands-on experience. She started as a farm data gatherer, eventually moving up to become a farm technician and farm supervisor. Her work and her degree in horticultural sciences enable her to work closely with crops and farmers. Now, as Harbest’s Project Extension Officer, MJ leads training and extension programs, helping farmers adopt innovative practices to improve productivity and sustainability. Her daily responsibilities at Harbest include designing training and seminars tailored for farmers, providing them technical support, and guiding them on sustainable practices.
Meanwhile, Charlette’s turning point came during the pandemic, when transport and movement restrictions highlighted gaps in the food system. Charlette realized how critical it is for households to access sustainable food systems in their communities. This realization motivated her to pursue a career in the agriculture sector, utilizing her degree in agricultural engineering and her major in agrometeorology and farm structures. Before joining Harbest, Charlette started as a site inspector in the Bureau of Plant Industry. In her current role, Charlette designs greenhouses and customizes irrigation systems based on clients’ requirements, helping promote efficient and sustainable farming solutions.
MJ and Charlette’s work gives them firsthand experience on how climate change impacts agriculture, from crop growth to consumption. Their hands-on experience, coupled with knowledge from agriscience, empowers them to come up with innovative and practical solutions that help farmers cope with climate change. This highlights the important role women play in both the academic and practical aspects of science, bridging the gap between research and real-world application—women can be leaders in the fields of agriculture, climate, and environmental sustainability.
Fulfillment in agriscience
MJ finds the experience fulfilling, particularly in exploring agriculture from a technical standpoint. Her eagerness to learn and gain more knowledge allows her to effectively assist farmers and provide them with technical know-how. At the same time, MJ’s interactions with farmers provide her with insights into their farming practices, nurturing a continuous exchange of knowledge that strengthens her agricultural knowledge.
“It’s providing the necessary technical support to farmers that’s fulfilling for me—promoting farming techniques and new technologies. It’s the simple ‘thank you’ that you hear from farmers that makes my job fulfilling,” shared MJ.
On the other hand, Charlette sees how her work directly impacts communities. She loves being part of a team that creates practical solutions for clients through the use of engineering and science. She appreciates the synergy in the agricultural sciences, where engineers and agriculturalists work hand-in-hand to help farmers improve their livelihoods. Being part of a team that truly cares about the well-being of Filipino farmers motivates her day-to-day.
“It’s satisfying to see how your work makes a difference in the lives of the communities you serve,” said Charlette.
Through PPSA and Harbest’s partnership during the ASEAN Green Recovery through Equity and Empowerment (AGREE) Project’s GrowHer Training of Trainers, MJ and Charlette also had the opportunity to share their knowledge on water management, helping women farmers address climate change challenges. Knowledge-sharing activities, training programs, policy advocacy, and agricultural projects that improve the lives of smallholder Filipino farmers continue to inspire MJ and Charlette in their professional journey. They recognize that working with others is essential to creating impact in the Philippine agricultural sector.
Looking ahead: a future of gender equality
MJ and Charlette understand that collaboration and partnerships are essential in nurturing a supportive and enabling environment where women and girls in agriscience can thrive. Empowering women and girls in science is essential to achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). MJ and Charlette hope to see more women and girls pursuing careers in STEM, breaking barriers, and driving change in the agriculture sector.
MJ offered advice to women and girls and women aspiring to build a career in STEM, “Be confident and empower the woman within yourself. Enjoy what you are doing and continuously seek new experiences, knowledge and skills if you want to build a career in science.”
Agriculture, particularly, is constantly changing. Charlette says it’s important to build new knowledge while staying humble: seeing others as people you can learn from, or mentors, instead of seeing them as competitors, may keep girls and women grounded as they build careers in STEM.
“No matter what your gender is, never doubt yourself and let your voice be heard,” Charlette emphasized.
As we celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, MJ and Charlette’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that women and girls have a place in STEM, including agricultural sciences. Their commitment to empowering farmers highlights that women can be catalysts for change in paving the way for a more inclusive and innovative agriculture sector.
Gender equality is not just a simple goal to strive for—it is a necessity for achieving the SDGs and shaping the future of science and food security. Let’s continue to uplift, empower, and invest in the next generation of women and girls in science.
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