The Inter-Continental Network of Organic Farmers Organisations (INOFO) is delighted to announce the election of our new Council Convenors for Latin America for the term 2024-2027. Elected during the 2024 INOFO Latin America General Assembly, these three outstanding individuals have been entrusted with the responsibility of representing the Latin American and Caribbean regions on the INOFO Global Council. They bring a wealth of experience, dedication to agroecology, and a shared commitment to fostering sustainable, organic agricultural practices.
Our new convenors will work closely with farming communities across Latin America, advocating for farmer rights, supporting organic agriculture, and promoting ecological practices that protect the environment and strengthen food sovereignty. Let’s meet the newly elected convenors who will lead the region’s organic movement over the next three years:
Thales B. Mendonça – Latin America
Associação para o Desenvolvimento da Agroecologia (AOPA), Brazil
Thales B. Mendonça is an active leader in agroecology in Brazil, where he is a member of the Associação para o Desenvolvimento da Agroecologia (AOPA). Thales is passionate about creating resilient farming systems that empower rural communities while safeguarding the environment. His work focuses on promoting sustainable farming practices that enhance biodiversity, protect soil health, and improve food security for local communities. As a representative for Latin America, Thales will work to build stronger networks among organic farmers and advocate for policies that protect the rights of smallholder farmers and promote organic agriculture.
Julitza M Nieves – Central America & Caribbean
Alianza por la Agricultura, Puerto Rico
Julitza M Nieves, representing the Alianza por la Agricultura in Puerto Rico, has been a driving force for sustainable agriculture in the Caribbean. Her work emphasizes community empowerment, food sovereignty, and resilience in the face of climate change. Through her advocacy, Julitza has strengthened community-led initiatives that support local food systems and organic farming practices. As the Convenor for Central America & the Caribbean, Julitza will focus on empowering smallholder farmers, promoting agroecological practices, and connecting farmers across the region to share knowledge and resources.
Alfredo Añasco – Latin America
Red de Mercados Agroecológicos Campesinos del Valle del Cauca, Colombia
Alfredo Añasco is a seasoned advocate for agroecological markets and cooperative farming structures in Colombia. With the Red de Mercados Agroecológicos Campesinos del Valle del Cauca, Alfredo has worked tirelessly to support market access for small farmers and to promote fair trade practices that benefit local communities. His commitment to agroecology and sustainable development has made him a respected leader in the movement. As a representative of Latin America, Alfredo will bring his experience in cooperative development to INOFO, helping to foster connections that support fair, sustainable food systems across the region.