Monica Ognio, Peru, is a second-generation farmer whose work blends agriculture, education, and technology to tackle food waste and empower communities. Monica’s family grows sweet onions for export and local markets, and experiments with crops like pumpkins, purple carrots, strawberries, and grapes for sustainable, small-scale production.

Driven by a teacher’s mindset, Monica leads with purpose—training her team, sharing knowledge, and fostering innovation. Her latest venture transforms surplus onions into crunchy, shelf-stable snacks using infrared drying technology, turning waste into opportunity and promoting food security. Monica’s vision is clear: make advanced tools accessible to all farmers, regardless of size or location, and build a more circular, resilient food system.