ORLANDO, FL - In less than a week, I will be surrounded by some of the most passionate women in the industry, those who are driven by a desire to evolve, learn, connect, and change the way they impact others. This kind of passion is contagious, and as many of the women I have spoken to in recent weeks told me—the International Fresh Produce Association’s (IFPA) Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference (WFPC) cultivates this advantage and environment.

Please join me in welcoming a few words from some of our friends as they share what they look forward to next week as the industry prepares for one of its most coveted events for women in produce.

Rachel Gough, Business Development Associate (West), Mastronardi Produce Ltd.

“This will be my first time attending Women’s Fresh Perspectives. I’ve heard amazing things about the conference, and I am so looking forward to networking with and being inspired by fellow females in the produce industry!”

Julie DeJarnatt, Director of Retail Strategy, Chelan Fresh

“From early in my career, I actively sought out a network of women who could help me navigate through the challenging years of establishing my career while also raising a young family. This became significantly harder when I entered fresh produce—there were simply fewer women leaders in this industry, and I was challenged to find time to seek them out. The WFPC event has blown the doors wide open for women to make new connections and have deep, meaningful discussions on a wide range of topics that impact us all. This will be my third year to attend, and it’s fun to see my career come full circle to where I not only still welcome the opportunity to be paired with a mentor, but also to reinvest in the upcoming generation by engaging with a couple of mentees. Honestly, this is my favorite industry event of the year—can’t wait to see everyone in just a couple of weeks!”

Tiffany Sabelli, Senior Director of Sales, Pure Flavor®

“There is something special about the WFPC. It’s refreshing to be able to attend a work event that focuses on development, networking, and personal growth. There has never been a year where I didn’t come back to work with a new outlook and empowered to accomplish something new.”

Alex Jackson, Vice President of Sales and Procurement, Frieda's Branded Produce

“The Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference always creates the best environment for self-reflection and helps inform my personal and professional development path for the next year. I am looking forward to hearing from other women inside and outside of the industry, having interesting discussions in the breakout sessions, and being inspired by where this next year of my journey will take me. No matter where you are in your career or organization, the Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference is perfect for that personal and professional ‘reset,' and I can’t wait for another great conference!”

Thank you to all the women who have shared their words and passion with us over part one, part two, and this final segment. See you all on Sunday!