Chocolate Cordillera, a Colombian chocolate company renowned for its sustainable practices, is making significant strides in supporting women cocoa farmers. This initiative, part of the Atenea program—“Women Who Transcend”—aims to empower 120 female farmers in the Córdoba region through access to financial resources, entrepreneurial training, and cocoa processing education, as reported by Neill Barston.
Known for its artisan chocolate, the company has garnered attention in Latin America and beyond, particularly at notable industry events such as the Sweets & Snacks Expo. Under the umbrella of its parent company, Compañía Nacional de Chocolates (Grupo Nutresa), Chocolate Cordillera is staking its claim in the realm of gender inclusivity within the agricultural sector.
Empowering Women Farmers
Since its inception in early 2023, the Atenea program has focused on equipping women with crucial skills. The initiative has received backing from Colombia’s SENA and the Government of Córdoba, which enhances its credibility and reach.
“In Córdoba, we’ve discovered extraordinary women with natural leadership and a passion for agriculture,” stated Alejandro Gil Aguirre, Director of Agricultural Purchasing and Development at Compañía Nacional de Chocolates. “Empowering them is a strategic investment in the future of Colombia’s cacao industry.”
Curriculum Overview
The program’s curriculum for 2025 is crafted to transition rural women from traditional farming roles to leaders in agribusiness. It includes:
- Entrepreneurship in chocolate and cacao processing
- Financial education for rural women
- Leadership and women’s empowerment
- Sustainable agronomic management strategies for cacao
The initial cohort of 101 women, originating from Antioquia, has already demonstrated success, launching 11 businesses within a year, which range from artisanal baked goods to premium hot chocolate.
Global Recognition
Chocolate Cordillera’s commitment to sustainable practices has not gone unnoticed on the global stage. In 2021, it earned accolades from the UN One Planet platform for its leadership in ethical cacao sourcing.
According to Natalie Quintero Zuluaga, Global B2B Marketing Director at Cordillera, “When a rural woman thrives, an entire community is uplifted. Atenea isn’t just training—it’s a catalyst for generational change.”
The ongoing efforts of Chocolate Cordillera showcase the potential for empowering women in the agricultural sector, translating social investment into actionable benefits for local communities.
