Women have been fighting for their place in the workforce all over the world for many years; it is one of the common social struggles worldwide. It is no different in Nicaragua, according to the Virtual Foundation,

"Several factors make it difficult for women in Nicaragua to achieve their full potential. Limited schooling is one factor, along with a high rate of pregnancy among women entering child-bearing age. For women having to support their households, a reliable source of income is crucial. However, as highlighted by several studies, there is a lack of formal work opportunity for women."

The farm, being run by Mausi and Eddy who have 4 daughters, has a great stake in female empowerment. Therefore, Selva Negra offers many opportunities to the women living at the farm. The cheese production is headed by women, as is the sausage production and accounting for the entire farm and resort. Women also perform most of the work in the compost production as well as the kitchens in both the hotel and farm.

Women taking leading roles is not an uncommon site, but it also is not an easy job. Women all too often must work twice as hard as their men counterparts when they take a leading role, although this is not something experienced only in Nicaragua, the Latin machismo culture doesn't help and makes women's jobs a lot harder to perform. Yet, at Selva Negra they have persevered and continue to take an active role on it's day-to-day activities. With approximately 47% of the work force being females, the farm is doing what it can to ensure that women start a trade and conquer it. In the process we are proud to have changed men's concepts on women's work, awakened women's self confidence, and given everyone a challenging test.

Aside from training and employing women, we also have programs through our clinic to teach young girls about themselves and their sexual safety. To learn more about our programs and the women who live at Selva Negra, you can contact us at: karen@selvanegra.com.