Cathy Holtslander, Saskatoon, Canada

Cathy Holtslander is a female food hero because Cathy’s connections with the land, her farm and farm neighbours also inform her work at the National Farmers Union and constantly reinforce her commitment. As Director of Research & Policy at the NFU, Cathy works with members by doing research to support policy recommendations and, in collaboration with NFU members, analyses and critiques existing agriculture and related policies. The NFU publishes its findings and promotes action towards a policy environment that supports thriving family farms, vibrant rural communities, wholesome food production and healthy ecology.

Cathy is also an organic farmer and gardener. She and her partner have a small organic grain farm near Shell Lake, SK. They enjoy the annual rhythm of seeding, growing, harvest and winter reflection and planning for the coming year, as well as the rewards of producing abundant, nutritious food for themselves and others. With two gardens (city and country) Cathy also raises many of the vegetables for her table throughout the year.