MISSION, TX - Nothing says female empowerment like shining a spotlight on some of our industry’s leading ladies. The Texas International Produce Association’s (TIPA) Viva Fresh Expo promises to do just that, as the organization’s In Bloom Women’s Committee recently announced the Speak Easy: Real Women, Real Talk session to take place on Friday, April 22.

“This session is more than a panel discussion. It’s a genuine conversation with women who have created their own paths forward. Their experiences and wisdom stand to benefit all of us,” Michelle Cortez, In Bloom Committee Chairwoman and Sales Director at Babia, commented.

Sponsored by Pure Flavor, the session will feature three female produce professionals: Dan’l Mackey Almy, Founder of DMA Solutions; Tiffany Sabelli, Director of Sales at Pure Flavor; and Suhanra Conradie, Chief Executive Officer at Summer Citrus of South Africa. They will be discussing the common challenges professional produce women frequently encounter, as well as the strategies they’ve found helpful in building their networks, expanding their resources, and amplifying their voices.

While the event will tackle the serious issues produce women face, it will also celebrate the lighter side of produce life and the many roles women fill in their daily lives, according to a press release. Following the discussion, attendees will have time to network as well.

“We believe that when one woman wins, we all win. It absolutely makes sense to sit down and discuss the recurring issues that produce women tend to encounter throughout their careers,” April Flowers, In Bloom Committee past Chairwoman and Marketing Director at Lone Star Citrus continued. “We have a responsibility to one another to share our success strategies and help push each other forward.”

The event is free to Viva Fresh attendees but requires prior registration, and while preference will be given to women attendees, men are welcome to join the waitlist on-site. This event also receives sponsorship support from London Fruit, Lone Star Citrus, Summer Citrus of South Africa, Bagley Produce, Pratt Industries, Coast Tropical, Santos International, Harvest Best, and Fox Packaging.

Cheers to the women of produce!

Viva Fresh Expo