Throughout the centuries, Cuban women have played a significant role in the historical development of the tobacco industry, now representing the majority in this sector. However, both they and women in other regions of the world were underestimated for centuries, as it seemed that this industry –or simply the enjoyment of a cigar– was reserved exclusively for men. Breaking down these barriers and myths has been the result of empowered women who stand out in society for their dedication, professionalism, and passion.
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A clear example of this effort is the Amigas del Habano Sociocultural Project, founded on February 23, 2010, as an essential part of the sociocultural work of the Tobacco Museum of the Office of the Historian. This project promotes and defends tobacco as a symbol of Cuban identity and highlights women as key players in every social endeavor.
It is a dream turned into reality, uniting over 200 women from Cuba and other nations, embracing the aroma of the Habano while sharing knowledge, joy, and unity.
Distance is no obstacle for this group, as daily interactions on social media reflect their shared wishes for a happy day, concern for each other’s families, discussions on cultural topics, insights into tobacco products and their pairings, and celebrations of the anniversaries of the countries represented within Amigas del Habano. Quarterly meetings, video calls, weekly themed discussions, and tobacco culture courses are just some of the activities that have brought together Cuban women and representatives from Argentina, the United States, the Dominican Republic, Colombia, Curaçao, Mexico, Canada, Venezuela, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Portugal, China, Greece, Turkey, and Japan.
Passion and empowerment have made it possible for the project to grow stronger over fifteen years, expanding to various provinces in Cuba and other territories around the world.
Two great gifts await these “flowers of the Habano” during their celebrations, but achieving them will be a story for another article. For now, we extend our gratitude to Anastasia Psomiadi, Amiga del Habano, for opening the doors and allowing the readers of this magazine to celebrate this new anniversary with us.
Amigas del Habano is made up of women from diverse professions and trades: vegueras (tobacco growers), despalilladoras (stemmers), torcedoras (cigar rollers), lectores de tabaquerías (factory readers), scientists, Habano shop owners, managers, hospitality and commercial staff, hotel maîtres, communication specialists, museologists, journalists, habanosommeliers, philologists, editors, smokers, and non-smokers alike –all united by their passion for the Habano and tobacco culture in their respective countries. The project also includes male collaborators who actively participate.
Since its founding, the project has had Honorary Members and a Board of Directors that evaluates annual work guidelines. Some members have been recognized nationally with awards for scientific research, visual arts, and culture. Our Amigas del Habano coordinator, Zoé Nocedo Primo, received the Habano Woman Award in Communication.
This is a celebration of unity, culture, and the enduring legacy of women in the world of premium cigars.
