The Inter-Continental Network of Organic Farmers Organisations (INOFO) is delighted to announce the election of the new Council Convenors for Asia for the term 2024-2027. These exceptional leaders were mandated and elected during the 2024 INOFO Asia General Assembly, where they were entrusted with the responsibility of representing Asia on the INOFO Global Council. Their mission over the next three years will be to advocate for the interests of organic farmers across Asia, advance sustainable and ecological agricultural practices, and strengthen regional collaboration within the organic movement.
Each convenor brings a unique perspective and extensive experience, rooted in a commitment to building resilient food systems, promoting farmer rights, and supporting ecological agriculture. Their collective expertise will be instrumental in shaping the future of organic farming in Asia and amplifying the voices of farmers on an international platform. Let’s meet the newly appointed convenors:
Shamika Mone – Southern Asia
Organic Farming Association of India (OFAI), India
Shamika Mone is a dedicated advocate for organic farming and a prominent figure in India’s agricultural sector. As a representative of the Organic Farming Association of India (OFAI), Shamika has been at the forefront of promoting sustainable farming practices that protect biodiversity and support smallholder farmers. Her work focuses on educating farmers about organic methods, encouraging community-based farming systems, and empowering rural women through agriculture. Shamika’s vision is to foster an inclusive and sustainable agricultural system across Southern Asia, supporting small farmers and creating resilient communities.
Virginia Nzareno – Eastern Asia
MASIPAG Philippines, Philippines
Virginia Nzareno represents MASIPAG Philippines, an organization dedicated to promoting farmers’ rights and supporting sustainable, farmer-led agricultural development. Virginia has a long-standing commitment to environmental sustainability and food sovereignty, focusing on empowering local communities through participatory approaches to farming. Her work with MASIPAG emphasizes seed preservation, organic practices, and strengthening farmer networks. As the Eastern Asia Convenor, Virginia will bring her extensive experience in grassroots advocacy to INOFO’s mission, aiming to enhance the resilience and sustainability of agricultural communities across the region.
Bibong Widyarti D. – South East Asia
Rumah Organik, Indonesia
Bibong Widyarti D., from Indonesia, is a passionate leader in the organic farming movement within Southeast Asia. With Rumah Organik, Bibong has been a steadfast advocate for agroecological practices that promote environmental health and food security. Her dedication to community development and her innovative approaches to organic farming have inspired many within her community and beyond. As the SouthEast Asia Convenor, Bibong will work to strengthen the network of organic farmers, enhance knowledge-sharing opportunities, and promote organic and ecological agriculture as a means to empower farmers and protect natural resources.