Dominican farmer Gilles Carbon-Jno Baptiste has been named one of FAO’s 100 Women Heroes after a global selection process involving 600 nominations.
Dominica: The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries Blue and Green Economy has shared a significant milestone for the country's agricultural sector and women in agriculture, announcing that a Dominican farmer, Mrs. Gilles Carbon-Jno Baptiste of Capuchin, has been named as one of the global inaugurals "100 Women Heroes in Agrifood Systems and Rural Development" by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
According to the Ministry, Carbon-Jno Baptiste was selected following a highly competitive global process which evaluated more than 600 nominations across 131 countries.
FAO recognised her leadership, dedication, innovation and tangible contribution to agriculture and rural development. With more than four decades of farming, the farmer has practiced sustainable farming practices (green manuring, mixed farming, rainwater harvesting, reforestation, composting, etc.,) and demonstrated excellence in her production of a diverse mix of crops, including citrus, plantain, avocado, vegetables, turmeric, potatoes, onions, goats, broilers and layers.
The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy, Roland Royer, has welcomed the international recognition, noting that Mrs. Carbon-Jno Baptiste embodies the dedication, resilience and innovation of Dominica’s farmers.
Mrs Carbon-Jno Baptiste represents the dedication, resilience and innovation of our farmers. For more than four decades, she has contributed to food production and to the development of other farmers and her community. We are extremely proud that her work has now received this important international recognition, stated Minister Roland Royer.
The Ministry of Agriculture has taken to Facebook to share about the international recognition, describing it as a significant achievement for Dominica and its agricultural sector.
The Ministry shared, Her selection is a proud moment for Dominica, the agricultural sector and the North Region, and highlights the important role of women as leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs and agents of change within our agrifood systems. Congratulations, Mrs. Gilles Carbon-Jno Baptiste, on this outstanding international achievement. The Agricultural Community is indeed proud of you!
The Government of Dominica has also shared this recognition on its official Facebook page, extending its congratulations to Mrs. Gilles Carbon-Jno Baptiste. A few citizens have also taken to the comment section to express their admiration for her achievement and encouraging her to continue inspiring others through her contributions to the agricultural sector.
A user under Wlater Edith shared, "Congratulations Gilles, this is a well-deserved honour on so many levels."
Another user also commented, "Congratulations to Mrs. Carbon-Jno Baptiste on this incredible achievement! Dominica is so proud of you."
Baptiste will head to FAO's headquarters in Rome, Italy, from October 12–16, 2026, where she will be celebrated during the World Food Forum event.