In the realm of agricultural research, Nozomi Kawarazuka stands as a beacon of change, championing gender equality initiatives within the International Potato Center (CIP) and the CGIAR community. Recently honored as the inaugural recipient of the Barbara Wells Award, her journey epitomizes resilience, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of dismantling invisible gender barriers.
As a feminist anthropologist, Nozomi’s professional trajectory has been defined by her unwavering commitment to empowering women farmers and challenging entrenched gender disparities in agriculture. Despite facing numerous challenges along her path, the late Dr. Barbara Wells’ unwavering support and trust in her work provided the impetus for Nozomi to forge ahead in her career at CIP.
With a background in both science and social science, Nozomi has been a driving force behind fostering collaboration between biophysical and social scientists. She advocates for interdisciplinary approaches, recognizing them as essential for achieving lasting impacts on gender equality. Notably, she has spearheaded initiatives such as the Gender and Plant Health Regional Research Networks and led the gender cluster in the Roots, Tubers, and Bananas (RTB) program.
Nozomi’s dedication extends beyond research; she actively mentors young scientists from the global south, integrating gender perspectives into their work and providing opportunities for marginalized girls to pursue education. Additionally, she supports and mentors young female researchers, acknowledging the unique challenges they face in their careers.
According to CIP Board Chair Helen Hambly, “Nozomi Kawarazuka’s dedication to advancing gender transformative research exemplifies the spirit of Dr. Barbara Wells’ legacy.” Her work not only contributes to the empowerment of women farmers but also inspires future generations of scientists to champion gender equality initiatives.
For Nozomi, receiving the Barbara Wells Award is not just about personal recognition; it’s about paving the way for future generations of scientists dedicated to gender equality. She plans to utilize the award to support biophysical scientists from the global south, contributing to gender equality initiatives at CIP and empowering women through practical interventions.
Throughout her tenure at CIP, Nozomi has witnessed firsthand the resilience and determination of women farmers striving for economic independence. Her work transcends mere research; it’s about making a tangible difference in women’s lives, empowering them to achieve their full potential.
As Nozomi continues her journey, she remains steadfast in her commitment to inspiring and mentoring young female scientists, ensuring that Dr. Wells’ legacy endures through her impactful contributions to gender equality in agriculture. Her unwavering dedication serves as a testament to the collective effort required to advance gender equality, reminding us all that the journey is worth pursuing tirelessly.
