2026: The Year of the International Woman Farmer - And Augusta Is Already Living It

2026: The Year of the International Woman Farmer

And Augusta Is Already Living It

2026 is being recognized globally as the Year of the International Woman Farmer.

But here in Augusta, we’ve been building this moment for years.

Let me start where I believe the future begins.

Chimere J. Brown: Growing Leadership from the Ground Up

When I think about sustainability, I don’t just think about soil health. I think about succession.

Chimere J. Brown understands that deeply.

Through her work with 4-H and at Belle Terrace Community Garden, Chimere is shaping young people who see agriculture not as something “other people do,” but as something they can lead. She exposes students to the science, discipline, entrepreneurship, and pride that comes with growing food.

At Belle Terrace, the garden is more than raised beds. It is a classroom. It is a confidence builder. It is a quiet revolution.

She is ensuring that our next generation doesn’t just consume food - they understand it.

Lashawndra Robinson: Planting Power at Allen Homes

Then there’s Lashawndra.

Retired veteran. Founder. Organizer. Co-chair of the GABCC Agribusiness Committee. Builder of the Allen Homes Community Garden.

At Allen Homes, Lashawndra is transforming underutilized space into opportunity. Residents aren’t just receiving produce. They are participating in production. They are building skills. They are seeing what’s possible.

Her motto — “Plant a seed. Watch it grow.” — is practical, not poetic.

And it’s working.

Carolyn Henry: Strengthening the Ecosystem

Local agriculture doesn’t thrive without infrastructure.

Through The Stop Food Truck, Carolyn Henry continues sourcing farm-fresh ingredients and turning them into healthy, accessible meals - while supporting small farm businesses through critical logistical support.

This is the part many overlook.

Farmers need markets. Families need access. Distribution matters.

Carolyn strengthens that ecosystem every single day.

Elevating the Conversation

As founder of Growing Augusta: Arts, Agriculture & Agency, I’ve been advocating for urban agriculture to be taken seriously - not as a hobby, but as economic development, public health strategy, and a pathway to reducing the cost of living.

Now, as I run for Georgia House District 130, that conversation moves into legislative space.

When urban agriculture is discussed at the Capitol, its value changes locally. Zoning, land access, education pathways, and small farm enterprise support become policy conversations - not side notes.

Representation shifts perception. And when women farmers are visible in leadership, more people see themselves in this field.

Honoring Legacy

This August, during Agriculture Month, we will present the Adderson Legacy Award - honoring those whose commitment to land and community leaves something lasting.

In the Year of the International Woman Farmer, it feels especially meaningful. Because what I see in Augusta is not symbolic participation.

I see structure. Strategy. Sustainability.
I see women leading the field.

And I believe it’s time we amplify them.

Support their work.
Show up.
Buy local.
Engage in policy.

Augusta is not waiting for permission to lead in agriculture.

We’re already doing it.