SACRAMENTO, CA - I feel grateful to work in an industry where relationships are prioritized, mentorship is valued, and there are spaces created for meaningful personal and professional growth. I have been lucky to, over the course of the past couple of weeks, bring together the words of some of the women attending the Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference (WFPC) on April 7–9 in Orlando, Florida. Their ideas, insights, and wisdom only reinforce that feeling even more, as I sit back to reflect on my own hopes and expectations for the event.
As we quickly approach the conference, I bring to you the words of more of these women, so that they may continue to amplify the messages of the conference and where we all go from here.
Angelic Meza, Marketing Manager, Church Brothers Farms
“I’m excited to meet inspiring women in the industry and grow my network. Since I’ve only been in the industry for three years, this is the first show of its kind that I’ll be attending. I’m looking forward to soaking in all the sessions and heading back to Salinas with tips on how to better myself professionally and personally.”
Renee Macaraeg, Marketing Associate, Markon Cooperative
"As a first-time attendee, I am looking forward to fully immersing myself at this year’s Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference. I am especially excited to learn from the wide variety of workshops offered and to have a role as a mentee in the mentorship program. Thank you to all those involved in the planning and preparation of this event and see you very soon!"
Aimee Peters, Business Development Manager, FirstFruits Farms
"Carrie Mack of Walmart initially introduced me and FirstFruits to the WFPC by uniting women in the apple industry to join and engage. The invaluable insights, mentorship, and networking opportunities provided by the WFPC have not only expanded my knowledge but also empowered me to navigate challenges and seize opportunities effectively. This marks my second year attending the conference, and it continues to serve as a catalyst for both personal and professional growth, offering a supportive platform to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the ever-evolving landscape of fresh produce."
Nicole Gordy, Chief Executive Officer, Sage Fruit Company
“The Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference is an event I look forward to attending every year! Hearing from inspiring women in our industry and how they have navigated the challenges most women face has been transformational for me. I am extremely grateful for the connections I’ve made at the conference that will last a lifetime, especially the mentor I was matched with through the WFPC mentorship program who has helped me achieve my career goals. Empowered women empower women!"
Veronica Rodarte, Category Manager—Chili, Citrus, and Herbs, Progressive Produce
“I'm looking forward to the diverse perspectives and insights shared at this year's conference. Events like these are valuable to the industry because they foster collaboration, networking, and the exchange of ideas, ultimately driving innovation and progress.”
Nikki Cossio, Chief Executive Officer and Founder, Measure to Improve
“As a first-time attendee, I am thrilled to be a part of this unique event, which is well-known for offering wonderful opportunities to connect and learn from other successful women leaders in the industry. I am honored not only to be attending but have been invited to present my story and share my unique perspective as a CEO. I look forward to the experience of growing personally and professionally. The icing on the cake is being able to connect with long-time friends, and other women that I admire and respect."
Thank you again to these handful of amazing women in a group of many, who are seeking to inspire and be inspired, empower and be empowered. See you all soon!
