María Luisa Álvarez

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María Luisa Álvarez, one of the most outstanding tobacco growers in Cuba, was nominated for the Mujer Habano distinction, which Habanos S.A. will award for the first time to a woman in 2011.

The Pinar del Río native María Luisa Álvarez Alfonso produces sun-grown tobacco (cultivated in areas not protected by shade cloth), with yields of 445 quintals per caballería, in the Monterrey del Cafetal vegas of the municipality of San Juan y Martínez, called the Mecca of Tobacco in Cuba, for the quality of tobacco leaf in the area.

Work helps me feel occupied—she told the press—and, besides, it is a source of happiness and a way of living off the beautiful land, which produces well, if one works with great care and diligence.