Vozes do Mate releases its sixth episode: Women of Yerba Mate – Work, Struggle, and Resistance

The podcast Vozes do Mate, an initiative by the Center for Development and Education of Traditional Yerba Mate Systems (CEDErva), continues its journey of valuing the knowledge of traditional yerba mate production systems. The project is part of the international research and outreach program Voicing Change, a collaboration between Brazil, Canada, and Kenya that aims to strengthen sustainable food systems through traditional and Indigenous knowledge.

In Brazil, the podcast focuses on shaded yerba mate production systems, where practical activities combine agriculture with the preservation of the Araucária Forest. These agroforestry systems are vital for maintaining the biodiversity of the Atlantic Forest and represent an economic model in harmony with the environment.

The sixth episode of this season, Women of Yerba Mate – Work, Struggle, and Resistance, brings an essential discussion on the perspectives of women farmers within these traditional systems. Moderated by researcher Dr. Renata Borges Kempf, the invited local leaders Silvia Mara Woiciechowski, Sonia Muniz, and Sivone Ernst share their experiences with yerba mate, their work in rural areas, and the spaces occupied by women. The conversation was recorded at Sonia’s property in Rebouças, where organic production forms the foundation of the family’s livelihood.

During the conversation, the participants reflect on the importance of collective organization and the ongoing pursuit of space and recognition in agriculture. The dialogue highlights that women’s roles in rural contexts are continuously being shaped and are a determining factor in sustaining and preserving traditional forest management practices.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with the tradition, innovation, and stories that keep yerba mate culture alive in Brazil!

To listen to Vozes do Mate: Episode 6 – Women of Yerba Mate – Work, Struggle, and Resistance, visit Spotify e YouTube.

To check out the episode’s show notes, click aqui.