Lídia Sbaraini Arend, Global Female Reproduction Specialist for Topigs Norsvin, will be the featured speaker during Pearls of Production’s Celebration of the International Year of the Woman Farmer on Oct. 28. The free webinar will begin at noon Central Time and is open to participants worldwide.

Originally from Brazil, Arend discovered her passion for swine production while attending veterinary school, spending academic breaks gaining hands-on experience on farms. Her dedication led to the United States, where she earned both a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in swine reproduction and physiology from the University of Illinois.

Today, Arend is based in the Netherlands and supports producers throughout Europe, South Africa, and Asia. In her role with Topigs Norsvin, she develops educational tools, training programs, and technical resources that help producers improve efficiency while maintaining a strong focus on animal welfare and care.

“Women continue to shape the future of agriculture through innovation, leadership, and a commitment to lifelong learning,” said Heather Conrow, MU Extension field specialist in livestock and statewide poultry specialist. “Lídia’s journey demonstrates how determination and education can create opportunities to make a global impact. We are excited to share her story as part of this celebration.”

As a woman whose career has spanned multiple continents, cultures and production systems, Arend brings a unique global perspective to agriculture. Her experiences highlight the value of diverse perspectives and international collaboration in advancing the livestock industry.

For more information about Pearls of Production, visit https://extension.missouri.edu/programs/pearls-of-production.

Contact Heather Conrow, MU Extension field specialist in livestock and statewide poultry, at hconrow@missouri.edu with questions.

To register, go online to https://pears.io/events/mu/9151/.