AgriFutura – The future grows from the earth and speaks through women

In Rauscedo, the homeland of vine cuttings and wine, the first edition of AgriFutura took place to celebrate the role of women in modern agriculture, an initiative proudly supported by Cantina Rauscedo.

“Our agricultural roots have the face, strength, and vision of women.” With these words, Mayor Michele Leon, also a colleague of ours, opened the event, highlighting the deep connection between agriculture, community, and female leadership, five years after the inauguration of the Monument to Women in Viticulture.

Among the speakers was Dusy Marcolin, President of the Regional Equal Opportunities Commission, who delivered the institutional opening remarks and emphasized the central role women play in the social and economic development of local communities.

Deputy Minister for the Environment and Energy Security On. Vannia Gava addressed the challenges facing citizens and businesses today, focusing on the measures introduced by the Government to support the productive sector, including circular economy initiatives and sustainability policies.

The practical realities of contemporary agriculture were illustrated by Daniela Battaglia, a young agricultural entrepreneur who has successfully combined farm management with innovative social media communication, offering an authentic perspective on the new face of rural enterprise.

Lucia D’Andrea, Principal of the “Il Tagliamento” Institute, outlined the evolution of the agricultural sector in the Destra Tagliamento area, where multifunctionality, innovation, and education are shaping the future of farming. She also highlighted the increasingly significant contribution of women to the sector’s growth and development.

An important contribution came from VCR Research Center, represented by Elisa De Luca, who reminded participants that research in the wine industry—once focused on combating phylloxera and now addressing the challenges of climate change—continues to pursue the same mission: solving problems and building the future.

One of the most inspiring moments of the event was the testimony of Antonella Nonino, who intertwined family history, entrepreneurship, and territorial identity, recalling the long-standing bond between the Grappa Nonino family and Rauscedo. This relationship culminated in 2024 with the granting of honorary citizenship to Giannola and Benito Nonino.

In his closing remarks, Mayor Michele Leon reflected on the symbolic significance of Rauscedo as a “land of roots,” noting that every great vineyard begins with a strong root system—often invisible, yet essential. Likewise, the future of agriculture depends on sustainability, innovation, and the enhancement of human capital.

Five years ago, this very community inaugurated the Monument to Women in Agriculture, a symbol of recognition and remembrance for all the women who have contributed—often quietly—to the development of the sector. Special tribute was also paid to the historical female figures of local agriculture, whose dedication and sacrifice helped shape the community’s identity.

Today, that message resonates more strongly than ever: the roots of our agriculture bear the face, strength, and vision of women. From this awareness emerges the challenge of the future—to build an agricultural sector that is increasingly sustainable, innovative, and inclusive, capable of valuing female talent and creating new opportunities for younger generations.