Francesca Maria Sottile

Francesca Maria Sottile, a 54-year-old from Buseto Palizzolo in Sicily, is an apiculturist who became passionate about bees after overcoming her initial fear of them. She has been actively involved in beekeeping for ten years, focusing on the preservation of the endangered black Sicilian bee. Francesca employs innovative, eco-friendly techniques to combat threats like the Varroa mite, emphasizing biomechanical methods over chemical treatments. Her honey production includes a variety of flavors, and she has gained recognition for her high-quality products, demonstrating that women can thrive in a field traditionally dominated by men.