A Dominican farmer with more than four decades of experience has earned international recognition for her contribution to agriculture and rural communities.

Gilles Carbon-Jno Baptiste of Capuchin has been selected as one of the inaugural Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) 100 Women Heroes in Agrifood Systems and Rural Development.

She was chosen from more than 600 nominations submitted from 131 countries worldwide.

According to the FAO, Carbon-Jno Baptiste stood out for her leadership, dedication, innovation and contribution to strengthening agrifood systems and improving the lives of people in rural communities.

For more than 40 years, she has operated a seven-acre farm producing crops and livestock for the local market.

Her farm produces citrus, plantain, avocado, vegetables, turmeric, potatoes and onions, alongside goats, broilers and layers. She is also a major supplier of fresh eggs and vegetables to supermarkets and local vendors.

Beyond production, Carbon-Jno Baptiste has focused heavily on sustainable farming practices.

Her approach includes green manuring, mixed farming, rainwater harvesting, reforestation and composting, as well as the use of natural alternative inputs and Good Agricultural Practices.

She also regularly supports agricultural training and demonstrations and serves as president of the Capuchin Farmers’ Group.

Agriculture Minister Roland Royer welcomed the international recognition, saying Carbon-Jno Baptiste represents the “dedication, resilience and innovation” of Dominican farmers.

“For more than four decades, she has contributed to food production and to the development of other farmers and her community,” Royer said. “We are extremely proud that her work has now received this important international recognition.”

Carbon-Jno Baptiste is also involved in several community, cultural and civic organisations. Her work in sustainable farming was previously recognised in 2023 when she received the Best Woman in Sustainable Farming Award.

The FAO said her selection highlights the role women play as leaders, farmers, innovators and entrepreneurs in agrifood systems, while also reflecting Dominica’s efforts to support women in agriculture.

Her work has contributed to food security, rural development, environmental sustainability and economic opportunities within her community.

Carbon-Jno Baptiste will be formally celebrated at an awards ceremony during the World Food Forum flagship event at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy, from October 12-16.

The recognition forms part of activities marking the International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026, which is highlighting the contribution of women to more inclusive, resilient and sustainable food systems.