MS Women For Agriculture

Mississippi Women for Agriculture is an organization dedicated to connecting and encouraging women in the agriculture industry. One of the ways the organization lives out their commitment is by hosting its annual conference, bringing together women in agriculture from across the state. First South Farm Credit was proud to serve as the diamond sponsor for the 2025 conference held in Starkville, Mississippi.

Mississippi Women for Agriculture (MWA) is based on Annie’s Project, a national farm program with the mission of empowering women’s roles in the industry. Throughout the year, MWA hosts many educational events, workshops, and presentations to help women improve management of risk. During their annual conference, they host speakers to educate attendees on topics such as direct-to-consumer marketing, succession planning, work/life balances, and more. Loan officers Erin McKenzie and Paige Bergeron represented First South at this year’s conference. 

"Meeting and speaking with women farmers across the state is inspiring," said McKenzie. "Women are more involved today in the day-to-day and financial operations of the farm than ever before. Women, overall, are nurturing by nature and in this day and age, they aren’t just nurturers for their families, but in helping their family farms to grow in every way."

Bergeron echoed the sentiment and stated, "My favorite thing about the MWA conference is the fellowship with like-minded women. It’s motivating to be around others who have the same goals and interests as me."

One of the many highlights of the conference was the Dianne Evans lecture lead by keynote speaker, Amanda Radke. Radke is a fifth-generation rancher and public speaker, known for advocating for agriculturalists across the country. 

By partnering with MWA, First South helped create an environment where women could connect, learn, and grow together.

“Mississippi Women for Agriculture is a wonderful organization that offers numerous ways to help women in agriculture in all aspects of farming… from finance, to risk management, to educational opportunities, workshops, conferences,” said McKenzie. “First South sponsoring their event is a huge support to allow them to get their message out to women all over the state of Mississippi. Our sponsorship allows us to be a part of something that a lot of these women need… community, friendship, the ability to learn more from one another and bringing women in agriculture together."