The article discusses the influential role of women in agriculture, centering on Franciele Gusatto, a veterinary doctor who operates her family's farm in Francisco Beltrão, Paraná. Franciele, 33, oversees the dairy production of almost 600 animals, including 210 lactating cows, alongside her parents. She shares that her family has always encouraged her to face challenges and overcome gender biases in a traditionally male-dominated field, embodying courage and resilience.

According to data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), women made up 18% of rural workers in Brazil in 2017. However, Franciele notes a positive shift in recent years; more women are taking active roles in agriculture, from animal commerce to decision-making processes. She points out that the clientele has changed too, with a notable increase in female buyers who are knowledgeable and assertive in their transactions, contrasting the past when men were predominantly the ones seeking livestock.

This changing dynamic not only reflects societal advancements towards gender equality in the agricultural industry but also highlights the growing contributions of women to farming economies. Franciele's experience showcases how women are not only participating more but are also becoming key figures in shaping the agricultural landscape in Paraná, fostering a community of empowered female producers who challenge traditional norms.