We should all be ‘agents of change’, says head of Argentine women’s association

Carla Dal Borgo president of The Asociación Mujeres del Vino Salta (Women of Salta Wines Association) tells db how supporting women in decision-making positions in the wine world is crucial.

Q: Tell us about your role within Argentine wine and how you came to head up the Women of Salta Wines Association.

A: My experience within the world of Argentinian wine began in 2017 when my family and I decided to start producing high-altitude wines in the province of Salta, in the north west of Argentina, that would highlight the identity of our wine region and represent our terroir. In the pursuit of this identity, sustainability and a commitment to the community have always been part of our principles. In an industry dominated by men, valuing the work of women within it became a significant concern that we shared with other businesswomen. Together, we decided to establish the Women of Salta Wines Association, which I currently have the privilege of leading, four years after its foundation.

Q: What are the key objectives of the association?

A: This non-profit association was established with the purpose of strengthening the bonds among women working in various areas related to viticulture by: recognising and reinforcing their role in this industry, implementing strategies to position high-altitude wines in the national and international markets, and generating actions that promote the sustainable development of the Calchaquí Valleys.

Q: Are there any ways that the wine business and association can help move things forwards?

A: Whether as a company or as an association, the most important aspect is to make the decision to be an agent of change and to get involved in making the wine industry sustainable, providing equal opportunities for all individuals. To achieve this, we must establish partnerships between the public and private sectors with the aim of developing policies that break stereotypes and promote best practices related to gender equity.

Q: Tell us some of the ways in which the association helps women towards further certification and empowerment.

A: Through our association, we provide various certifications that promote the empowerment of women in both their professional and personal lives. One of these certifications was focused on the Micaela Law, providing training on gender perspectives and violence against women, specifically aimed at women from the Cachaquí Valleys, our influential area as a wine-producing region and where the topic holds particular sensitivity. Also we have offered workshops on financial education, entrepreneurship, and various topics related to viticulture, providing tools for professional development, with a consistent emphasis on gender equality.

Q: Have you noticed any changes to gender equality during your time in the industry?

A: A few years ago, it was difficult for some to envision women as protagonists in this industry. However, nowadays, many remarkable women lead companies, hold decision-making positions, and excel in various roles such as winery owners, winemakers, agronomists, sommeliers, ecotourism influencers, or managers in diverse areas. Fortunately, pioneering women have paved the way, but there is still much work to be done.

Q: Have you seen any differences in how people consider Argentinian wine?

A: Argentina is globally recognised for the excellence of its wines, and many distinguished wineries have women in decision-making positions shaping the course of these companies and their products. It is essential to persist in communicating the essence of Argentine wine, with a strong emphasis on sustainable production.

Q: How can addressing gender equality improve the future of wineries?

A: Addressing gender equality and equal opportunities promotes a fairer and healthier business system, builds a stronger economy and contributes to the community by improving the living conditions of men, women, and their families.

Q: Why is it important to highlight the achievements of women in senior positions?

A: Giving visibility and supporting women in decision-making positions is crucial. It strengthens their capacities, propels them into new challenges, fortifies a company’s structure, and inspires other women and girls to pursue a future with more opportunities.

Q: How have you worked to address gender equality directly or indirectly in daily life?

A: Initially, to open ourselves up to spaces for reflection is crucial, since we can have many things normlised and we do not realise until we stop to think. Following this, the construction of networks and the exchanging of experiences are vital to sharing best practices and establishing strategies that guide us.

Q: What advice would you give to other organisations looking to support gender equality in the workplace?

A: Creating networking opportunities with institutions that share similar objectives and have more experience provides valuable learning and inspiration. Additionally, training on the subject matter is indispensable. There are programmes conducted by organisations such as UN Women or Wines of Argentina that guide us, help us establish goals, and define the path to follow to achieve them.

Q: Who is your biggest female role model and why?

A: One of my greatest inspirations is Dr. Jane Goodall, an extraordinary woman in the fields of science and wildlife conservation, whom I encountered during my training as a biologist. Dr. Goodall always emphasises that “you cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make”. Being mindful of every action we take and considering how we can contribute to improving reality with our decisions is crucial. I have chosen to contribute my part from my position.

Q: What are you most proud of in your career?

A: I pride myself on my tenacity and the valuable learning I acquire through experience when facing new challenges, even if the results are not always as expected.

Q: Finally, what’s your greatest hope/ambition for the future of Argentine wine?

A: In the near future, I hope that Argentine wines, especially those from Salta and the Calchaquí Valley, will be recognised for its sustainable and inclusive production, where women stand out for their work and achievements, not for the rarity of being women working in this industry.