Zoe Colville wearing a beanie hat, feeding a goat in a barn

International Women’s Day 2024

Zoë Colville | Farmer, Author, Entrepreneur

International Women’s Day celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. To mark this important day, the Muck crew meets Zoë Colville, a farmer, author, and entrepreneur. 

Zoe Colville stood outside in front of a blossoming tree, wearing sunglasses, dungarees and a pair of Muck Boots, holding a newly born lamb

 About Zoë

Zoë spent her childhood outdoors with her imaginary animals and tent making. At 18 she moved to London to train as a hairdresser where she spent all her time until she met Chris and slowly migrated back to Kent. Slowly they have built up their flocks and herds and now they have quite a menagerie of animals, grazing pockets of land all over the county (and beyond). One thing is for certain, the passion they have for their livestock is ever present. Even in the wettest winter or the driest summer they strive for nothing but the best.

“I no longer frequent famous bustling high streets, lured into shops by their glittery “sale” signs and inviting aromas of bergamot and orange blossom. When we take the day off the farm to go “shopping” now, it’s less mimosas and pancake stacks and more greasy fry up, with a cafetiere coffee in a polystyrene cup to go.”.

Zoe Colville wearing an apron and holding a string of sausages

 Adapting to Lifestyle Changes

“I used to be intimidated by that environment, feeling the outsider because I didn’t know the names of the breeds or simply not understanding what the auctioneer was saying over the microphone, I thought I spoke fast! Everyone was so welcoming it wasn’t long before I felt comfortable enough to make bids and felt that buzz. There is adrenaline and excitement that comes with buying livestock in autumn that you don’t get at any other time of the year.”.

Close up of a pair of Muck Boots with three goats stood behind

What does International Women’s Day mean to me

"I view being a woman in an industry which is known as being not very diverse, as a strength. I tackle problems with a different mindset to my male partner and by just being female in the agricultural industry and showing up, things will be better for future generations”

Zoe Colville sat on grass, feeding a lamb a milk bottle, wearing a pair of Muck Boots

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