Women who own the land and their lives

Latina women are gaining ground in every sphere, and the agricultural sector is no exception, as more and more women are transitioning from day laborers to landowners and organic farmers, trained in sustainable land management, leadership, and environmentally friendly practices.

Celsa Ortega, an indigenous Mixtec woman, farmer, and founder of the Induchucuiti Organic Farm, is an example of this transformation; her story, which began in the mountains of Oaxaca, crosses borders and now flourishes in the California countryside.

Celsa Ortega explains the origin of her farm’s name and recalls how she dealt with culture shock.

Celsa Ortega, a farmer from Oaxaca and founder of the Induchucuiti Organic Farm, shares how she struggled to build a different life for herself…

She explains how her life changed after marriage and how, later on her own with her children, she has fought to make ends meet.

Celsa Ortega, a farmer from Oaxaca and founder of the Induchucuiti organic farm, spoke with Alba, an agency, about her journey into organic farming and achieving independence.

Celsa Ortega made a change: she sent her children to school and went back to school herself. She recalls that when you migrate, you also bring your culture with you.

Celsa is a mother of four and knows what it means to balance work, family, and the daily struggle. That’s why her story has become an inspiration for other migrant women seeking to make their way in sustainable agriculture.

Her message is clear: farm work has value, our languages and cultures matter, and migration can also be a story of growth and leadership.

This report is part of the “Cuando se seca el Arroyo” series, partially funded by The Walton Family Foundation.