Cathy Burns, Alex Jackson, and More Share Women's Fresh Perspectives Conference Testimonials
ORLANDO, FL - The closeness of our industry is a hallmark of progress. We lift each other up, first and foremost, and organizations like the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) give us the space to do so. Next up on the calendar is the Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference (WFPC) at the Waldorf Astoria in Orlando, Florida, bringing together female produce experts to share ideas and network.
As we anxiously anticipate the two-day event’s kickoff on April 16, I got in touch with some of our industry friends to hear what they have to say.
Cathy Burns, Chief Executive Officer, International Fresh Produce Association
“The annual IFPA Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference is one of my professional and personal highlights of the year because of the forum it provides for female executives at all levels from across the produce and floral communities to further develop their leadership skills. Sometimes all it takes is that one new idea or insight to unlock an approach that will propel someone forward into new opportunities, roles, and responsibilities; I’ve seen it happen before at the conference. It’s incredibly inspirational to see these women experience breakthroughs in how they approach their careers and a blessing to know this program is able to make a positive difference in their lives and to their companies.”
Alex Jackson, Vice President of Sales and Procurement, Frieda’s
“Year after year, I am grateful for Frieda’s supporting my attendance to the Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference. I always return to work invigorated, inspired, and honored to be a leader. Being a leader means having a passion for continuous learning personally and professionally so you can lead others on your team to do the same. Women’s Fresh Perspectives provides attendees with the content and connections to do just that. I am so excited for what this year’s conference has in store!”
Wendy McManus, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Connect 2 Potential
“The Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference is unlike any other event in the produce industry. Where else can you immerse yourself in an environment that’s 100 percent focused on developing professional women as leaders and contributors? The quality of speakers is outstanding, the topics are always on point, and the networking opportunities are excellent. This gathering encourages deep and meaningful conversations about how women can best navigate the unique challenges of this industry. I always leave WFPC feeling energized and ready to tackle my next high-leverage goal.”
Catherine Gipe-Stewart, Director of Marketing, Superfresh Growers®
“When industry colleagues ask Superfresh Growers why we send our teammates to IFPA’s Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference, one word is usually said, ‘CONFIDENCE!’ The workplace gender gap is often traced back to what is called ‘The Confidence Gap.’ Forbes reported that men often apply for a job or promotion when they feel 60 percent qualified, while women wait until 100 percent qualified. The workshops, discussions, and research shared at WFPC instills confidence in the attendees and helps to close both gaps. When our teammates come back from WFPC, they are energized, confident, and ready to grow their personal and professional goals.”
We at ANUK applaud all of the fierce women participating in this one-of-a-kind event. Stay tuned for part two of our testimonials.
