By Lydia East

Two Alabama farmers joined more than 500 women in Washington, D.C., June 1-3 for the biennial Advocate Cultivate Empower (ACE) summit. Held in celebration of the International Year of the Woman Farmer, the three-day event allowed ladies from around the world to learn, network and make valuable connections.

Alabama Farmers Federation State Women's Leadership Committee Secretary Amy Belcher and committee member Shelley East attended the conference.

"The ACE conference was an amazing way to connect with ladies in agriculture," Belcher said. "My dad instilled a confidence in me that women could do anything, and that was the sentiment of this conference - farm women who get things done."

The experience also left a lasting impression on East, who said the relationships and conversations with lawmakers made for a meaningful trip.

"Through this summit, I made some lifelong connections to women in agriculture across the world," East said. "Having the opportunity to personally meet with our state legislators on Capitol Hill to discuss current issues and share information about our farm was the highlight of this trip."

Women's Leadership Division Director Kim Earwood reinforced the importance of the conference and how beneficial it is for ladies in agriculture.

"I am so glad Amy and Shelley were able to represent Alabama during the International Year of the Woman Farmer," Earwood said. "Because of this conference, they will be able to help our ladies across Alabama advocate for agriculture, help cultivate new leaders and empower our Women's Division members to be a voice for policy and programs."