PARFED President, Mina Ballesteros, Champions Philippine Family Farm Schools at International Assembly in Bologna

On October 19, 2023, Mina Ballesteros, President of PARFED (Philippines' federation of Family Farm Schools), embarked on a journey to Bologna, Italy, where she attended the international assembly of Family Farm Schools. Her presence at this global gathering was pivotal as she passionately presented the current situation of Family Farm Schools in the Philippines. Beyond sharing insights, Mina served as a catalyst for garnering international support aimed at enhancing the sustainability and promotion of FFS across the country. This endeavor not only highlights our dedication to advancing agricultural education but also underscores the crucial role of collaboration on a global scale in achieving these goals.

During her visit, Mina extended her sincere gratitude to her interpreter from Honduras, Diany Guerrero, and to Emily McQualter and Nelsie Alvarez for their invaluable assistance and unwavering support. Their contributions were instrumental in ensuring effective communication and outreach during the assembly. Additionally, Mina expressed deep appreciation to our generous donors and Dr. Rudy Jaravata for their continued commitment to the mission of PARFED and the advancement of Family Farm Schools in the Philippines. Their support enables us to strengthen our efforts and uphold our mission with steadfast determination.

In a significant stride towards global engagement, Mina also visited the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Rome, further enriching our collaborative efforts on an international platform. This experience expanded our network and deepened our understanding of global agricultural practices and policies, reinforcing our resolve to promote sustainable farming practices and empower future generations through education