
Empowering Women and Driving Success: The IFPA Women's Portfolio Fuels Year-Round Mentorship; Cathy Burns Comments
WASHINGTON, DC - The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) reaffirms its leadership in championing women’s impact in the fresh produce and floral industries through its dynamic portfolio of women-focused events and initiatives, fostering a more inclusive and diverse landscape.
With its premier women’s networking event The Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference, officially sold out for the 3rd year in a row, IFPA is enhancing its existing leadership development, networking, and mentorship opportunities, offering year-round engagement for individuals passionate about advocating for women’s issues.

“The overwhelming response to The Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference highlights the important role these events play in supporting the professional growth of women in our industry,” said Cathy Burns, CEO of IFPA, in a recent press release. “We are committed to providing ongoing opportunities for women to connect, learn, and lead through our range of programs, and we will continue to support them in every step of their journey.”
IFPA’s Women’s Fresh Perspectives Portfolio initiatives provide multiple opportunities for participation throughout the year:
- June 11, 2025 - The Washington Conference: Focus on Advocacy Breakfast – A powerful networking session where forward-thinking women attending The Washington Conference can build valuable connections with other women interested in policy, advocacy, and women’s leadership in produce and floral.
- July 31, 2025 - The Foodservice Conference: Networking Event – An exclusive afternoon reception at The Foodservice Conference, designed to connect women leaders and rising professionals in the foodservice industry with peers and industry mentors.
- October 18, 2025 - The Global Produce & Floral Show: Women’s Breakfast – A must-attend gathering uniting women from across the industry for a morning of inspiration, connection, and professional development at IFPA’s flagship global event.
- 2025 Women's Fresh Perspectives Mentoring Program – A re-established mentoring program designed to foster meaningful connections between seasoned professionals and emerging leaders, providing guidance, support, and career advancement opportunities.
IFPA encourages women across the fresh produce and floral industries to take advantage of these programs by attending events, joining mentorship opportunities, and engaging with IFPA’s network.

“Women bring essential perspectives and leadership to our industry, and we're proud to provide programs that help them thrive,” added Burns. “These events and initiatives create pathways for individual success while also strengthening the industry by building a more impactful and dynamic workforce.”
For more information on upcoming events and how to participate, visit https://www.freshproduce.com/events/.