Women in Ag Series | Sophie Bell, Co. Cavan

At Ballybar Ireland, we’re proud to share the stories of women shaping the future of agriculture. This week, we’re shining a light on Sophie Bell — a 3rd generation farmer from County Cavan who is carving out her own path.

After graduating with a BSc from Harper Adams and an MSc from UCD — where she researched the impact of TB on farmers — Sophie returned home to dedicate herself to the family farm and build her career in agriculture.

In March 2022, she made the bold decision to move from beef farming into contract rearing. Since then, Sophie has been making big changes: improving soil health and pastures, investing in drainage and hedgerows, and putting new infrastructure in place to ensure her herd’s health and comfort.

Sophie isn’t just managing a farm; she’s advocating for young farmers and showing how generational renewal can strengthen Irish agriculture. Her story is inspiring a new wave of young women to see farming as a space where they belong and can thrive.

👉 Stay tuned as we continue our Women in Ag Series, celebrating the voices and stories of women who are changing the face of rural Ireland.