What it means to be a conscious consumer
Natalia Daqui Loureiro, a second-year student and the student representative for the School of Agriculture and Environment, led a meaningful International Women’s Day celebration at Assiniboine College’s Victoria Campus in Brandon on March 10, 2025.
The highlight of the event was a collaborative mural. Participants were invited to write the name of a woman they admire. This simple activity turned into a powerful tribute to women and their impact. It celebrated women’s contributions across generations, careers, and cultures. It was especially meaningful in fields like agricultural science, where women’s roles are often overlooked.
After attending 10th Fair Trade Conference in Canada with support from the Manitoba Council for International Cooperation (MCIC), Natalia was inspired to showcase woman-led agricultural projects from cocoa cooperatives around the world. These examples demonstrate how sustainable and fair production systems can uplift communities, support workers, and protect natural resources.
She realized that “there is the opportunity to contribute no matter which role you are at currently,” and wanted to encourage others to see their own power to make change.
The heart of the event centred around a simple but powerful idea. Everyone can be part of the solution by becoming more conscious customers.
Natalia explains, “beyond a product there are people working to make it possible and there are natural resources involved in their production.” By making thoughtful choices, students were shown how they can support fairness, sustainability, and ethical business practices.
As the student representative she worked closely with fellow council members of the Assiniboine College to plan and deliver every detail of the event. Together, they created a space where conversations about responsibility, fairness, and sustainable choices could take root.
Through this celebration, the hope is that students and staff will remember that small, thoughtful actions can lead to lasting change. “It makes sense that all of us be part of the solution,” she says, encouraging a shift toward conscious consumer habits.
Connect with Natalia on LinkedIn
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