Sebastiana Pimentel: The Revolution in Brazilian Coffee Farming

Sebastiana Pimentel Cunha Bueno was a woman ahead of her time, whose determination and vision transformed Brazil’s coffee economy in the 20th century. Born in the late 19th century, she married Colonel Henrique Cunha Bueno, a member of a traditional coffee-growing family in São Paulo, at a young age. After a stint in Paris, the couple faced financial difficulties due to the drop in coffee prices. While Henrique considered seizing properties, Sebastiana decided to take over the management of the family farms in the interior of São Paulo. She was involved in all stages of production, from planting to tasting the beans, ensuring the quality of the coffee produced. Sebastiana's work was multifaceted: she sought to improve the quality of the product, diversified investments and actively participated in local politics. Even with the 1929 crisis, which severely affected the global economy, she managed to restore the financial health of her properties, while her husband took care of marketing and financial affairs. In 1944, after Henrique's death, Sebastiana took on the political role that had previously been his. Two years later, she was appointed mayor of the city where her farms were located, thanks to her economic power and political connections with the Getúlio Vargas administration. During the post-war coffee boom in 1946, she was recognized for the excellence of her coffee plantations and joined the High Agricultural Council of the State of São Paulo. In 1952, she received the medal of perseverance from President Vargas, an honor granted on the recommendation of the Brazilian Rural Society. The superior quality of the beans produced by Sebastiana was widely recognized in the market, in part due to her skill as a coffee taster. Her career highlighted the importance of women in Brazilian coffee farming, breaking down prejudices and paving the way for future generations of women in the industry. Sebastiana Pimentel Cunha Bueno’s story is an inspiring testament to the strength, resilience and innovative capacity of women in Brazil’s coffee economy. Her leadership and dedication not only saved family farms in times of crisis, but also set new standards of excellence in coffee production. By taking on roles traditionally occupied by men, Sebastiana challenged the social norms of the time and paved the way for female participation in male-dominated economic sectors. Her appointment as mayor and her membership in the High Agricultural Council of the State of São Paulo are significant milestones that reflect her lasting impact on Brazilian politics and agriculture. Furthermore, her awarding of the Medal of Perseverance by President Getúlio Vargas highlights the national recognition of her contributions. The excellence of the beans produced by Sebastiana, the result of her meticulous selection and tasting, raised the quality standards in the coffee market. Her ability to identify and promote coffee quality contributed to Brazil’s reputation as one of the world’s leading producers of high-quality coffee. Sebastiana’s story serves as a powerful reminder that even in times of adversity, determination and innovation can lead to significant transformation. Her life is a celebration of the vital role that women have played and continue to play in building and developing the Brazilian coffee economy.

Women's Month

In honor of Women's Month, we celebrate the strength and determination of women like Sebastiana Pimentel Cunha Bueno, who transformed the history of coffee farming in our country. SIATEC Brasil, a specialist in the manufacture of coffee roasting machines, recognizes and supports the fundamental role of women in the coffee sector. We invite you to learn more about our equipment, developed to meet the needs of roasters, and to celebrate the achievements of women in the coffee industry.