In Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, a remarkable young woman named Amara Valle is making waves in beekeeping and the academe. At just 17 years old, Valle has already proven herself to be an effective multi-tasker and achiever, seamlessly balancing her responsibilities on the family’s bee farm, Aval’s Apiary Products and Services, with her exceptional academic achievements.
Valle’s journey began at a young age, when she would accompany her parents to their small but thriving bee farm. Fascinated by the intricate workings of the hive and the vital role bees play in our environment, Valle quickly developed a deep appreciation for these industrious, buzzworthy insects. She spent countless times observing the bees, learning about their behavior, and even helping harvest honey and make bee-derived products.
“When I started learning beekeeping and the science of beekeeping during the pandemic, I immediately loved it. My initial contribution was to help my father as his assistant. In the world of digitalization, I act as the bridge between agriculture and technology on the farm. I help the family’s beekeeping business market digitally and reach customers online, Valle shared.
Since she helps manage their official Facebook business page, Aval’s Apiary Products and Services, she interacts with the customers and relays orders and inquiries to her parents.
Excelling in the classroom and the field
While Valle’s passion for beekeeping was evident, her academic prowess was equally impressive. Consistently ranking among the top students in her class, Valle’s dedication to her studies has earned her numerous accolades and scholarship grants, including her acceptance into the University of the Philippines-Los Baños (UPLB), where she is currently a university scholar pursuing a degree in BS Chemistry.
“At first I wanted to pursue forensics, but I realized later on that chemistry is very broad and that I can use such knowledge in business. I can use the knowledge in our beekeeping business, especially in product development. I also intend to help enhance the agricultural practices at home by harnessing the power of chemistry,” she said.
As a Grade 12 student, her research project was about a gel-based treatment using lemongrass oil, which she hoped would work out as a treatment against Varroa mites on the farm. So far, she has observed promising results indicating its effectiveness, and she also submitted it as an entry to the Regional Science and Technology Fair.
Balancing responsibilities and achieving dreams
Valle’s ability to juggle her responsibilities on the bee farm and her academic commitments is nothing short of remarkable. She wakes up early each morning to tend to the hives, ensuring the bees are healthy and the honey production is running smoothly. After her farm duties, Valle heads to school, where she immerses herself in her studies, participating in various extracurricular activities and community service projects.
“One of the stereotypes that is going on with our farmers is that most of them are low-income, but things are slowly and gradually changing since a lot of young people like me are taking an interest in, and would love to be involved in farming,” Valle said.
Another farmer stereotype is that they are uneducated, but with the advancement of technology and the availability of social media, farmers are getting the farming information they need. Farmers can now also take advantage of free agri-courses online with certificate courses, where they can learn and acquire new farming practices, Valle added.
“It’s not always easy, but I love what I do,” Valle said with a smile. “The bees and my studies are both a huge part of my life, and I’m grateful to be able to pursue both passions. I encourage my fellow youth to not be afraid to get their hands dirty and to try new things. Our advantage is that, with our young age, we have more freedom to explore, to contribute to our aging farmers, and to innovate,” she continued.
Valle’s story shows the power of dedication, hard work, and passion. Excelling in both academics and beekeeping, she inspires young people, proving that with the right mindset and determination, anything is possible. (ATI-10/PIA-10)
