Women’s Fresh Perspectives Continues To Strengthen Industry Connections and Leadership Growth; Julie DeJarnatt Comments


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Wed. March 18th, 2026 - by Jordan Okumura-Wright

CARLSBAD, CA - Connection, thoughtful reflection, and transformative personal growth. Whether you are a first-time attendee at the Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference (WFPC) or a seasoned veteran, these three pillars remain enduring touchstones—continually revitalized and celebrated at the annual gathering. This is particularly resonant for newcomers, as Julie DeJarnatt, Vice President of Marketing and Brand Strategy at Chelan Fresh, shares with me as our industry looks to the upcoming event in Carlsbad, California.

Julie DeJarnatt, Vice President of Marketing and Brand Strategy, Chelan Fresh

“Every time I attend one of the Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conferences, I walk away with new relationships and new insights,” Julie expressed. “Getting to do this with close friends I seldom see outside of formal business events makes it even better. First-time attendees have the advantage, as do the rest of us, of having the opportunity to see, first-hand, what happens when a collective of supportive women share their experiences, victories, and challenges for the benefit of all.”

Since Julie first attended the conference, her life—and perspective—have evolved immensely, as she shares.

Pictured above is a memory from the Women's Fresh Perspective Conference in 2025 (photo credits: IFPA)

“While my career has stayed the same, my perspective has shifted somewhat from purely personal development to nurturing the next generation of leaders,” Julie says. “After my first conference, I walked away feeling less alone and more relaxed. Some of the issues we discuss are significant and not often discussed openly, so you may end up thinking you are the only one dealing with them. Realizing that not only are you not alone, but often not even in the minority—the majority of women face many of the same hurdles and challenges—was eye-opening.”

And I am the first person in line when Julie begins sharing her wisdom.

“I get more comfortable each year,” Julie says. “It takes time to trust that the space is truly safe.”

You never know what words will resonate, but I can guarantee Julie’s will.


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