The Second Encounter of Women Leaders was held June 20 and 21, 2008, to provide a forum for reflection on and analysis of food sovereignty and share experiences related to organization and women’s leadership in the conservation of biodiversity for the development of rural families in the regional context, and to design strategies for food sovereignty with a gender approach. The event drew 92 women leaders from the entire Piura region, both areas where Heifer is working and other provinces. Two women leaders from Puno and Cusco also attended.

Heifer Peru-Northern Zone works with families and women’s groups in rural Andean and coastal areas of the departments of Piura and Lambayeque, helping to improve their quality of life and promoting sustainable development in communities and grassroots organizations. This event was designed to highlight the leadership role of women in rural and peripheral urban areas and their commitment to more just and equitable development involving both women and men.

The event drew women leaders from various coastal and highland provinces of Piura, who discussed key issues related to food sovereignty and political advocacy. The methodology allowed the women to participate in working groups and plenary sessions. The event was marked by a plurality of ideas and opinions about the issues. Women from grassroots organizations in lower Piura and organizations involved in the Bi-National Project heard proposals from experienced women leaders and councilwomen, providing an opportunity for shared learning.

An analysis of the event showed that women from the highlands identified more with native traditions, customs and the land. This emotional element was clear when they spoke of food sovereignty, cultural identity and biodiversity as the basis of an awareness of the right to a high-quality diet for women in the zone. This was corroborated in panel discussions with women leaders from Huancabamba and the guests from Cusco and Puno.