GRAYS INN, St Mary — After copping four sectional prizes on her way to being crowned St Mary Farm Queen 2023, Shanique Hunter will use her reign to get more recognition for the work done by women who till the soil.

“My inspiration is to change the concept of how society looks at farmers, specifically female farmers. They will never stop providing for the society and this platform, I hope, will inspire young farmers especially our women,” Hunter said of her reason for entering the contest.

The 23-year-old, second -year student was overwhelmed with emotions when she was recently announced as the winner. She is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture Production and Food System Management at the College of Agriculture Science and Education (CASE). She intends to work with CASE to educate farmers about climate-smart agricultural practices. The goal is to give them the knowledge needed to improve production which will contribute to a healthier lifestyle and the environment. Her focus will be on young farmers.

Hunter, who copped sectional prizes at the parish level for being the most talented, best dressed, most agriculturally aware and having the best oral presentation of technical papers, is confident she will do well at the national level.