Global Women's Network

Fruit Logistica 2019 will be the backdrop for the first ever Global Women’s Network event.

Organised by Viviane Schappo, Monica Bratuti and Julie Escobar, who between them have more than 25 years of experience in the international fresh produce trade, the event will be an opportunity for women in the industry to share ideas, collaborate with each other and inspire the global agricultural community to support their professional growth.

“We are incredibly excited to see the responses to this event from women around the world. The amount of positive support and desire out there from women in our industry who want to belong to a bigger global network is amazing,” said Julie Escobar, co-initiator of the first Global Women's Network.

“In the past, each country has always done its own thing with very little integration from other countries. The time to make a dramatic change in our industry and have a stronger voice is now.

“Our global network is, and will be, a platform not only to network around business opportunities but also to serve as a space for women in the fresh produce industry to get inspired, connect and be transformed into better executive leaders. Our goal is to bring speakers to our events who can 'rock the boat' and have really impactful conversations around topics that matter to women in business.”

Guest speakers from four continents will take part in a panel discussion on the many facets of professional life in the fresh produce industry. These are:Linda Carobbiof Italy’s Savino del Bene,Michelle Masekof Apeel Sciences in the US, Rocio Aguilarof Latin America-based Altar Produce andEbby Loo of Asia’s Euro Atlantic Group.

Laura Dellingerof Wisebridge, an expert on women’s economic development programmes, will share her experience in other business sectors.

In their keynote speeches, the guest speakers will not only talk about their past experiences, but also create a common ground for a global women’s network.

The event takes place on Friday 8 February at 10:00am in Hall 6.3.