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The Produce Moms Podcast


Aug 21, 2019

 

“If we integrate more women and balance the boardroom, then we can have a huge impact on the environment.”

Julie Escobar (11:34 - 11:46)


The International Mission of Global Women Fresh

Julie Escobar has worked on an international scale with growers, consumers, and retailers in the agricultural industry for the past 20 years. Throughout her business expeditions in Latin America, Europe, and the Pacific Rim, one factor remained constant: There were almost never any other female representatives present at sit-down meetings. 

Where were all the women? This question led Julie and two close friends, Viviane Schappo and Monica Bratuti, to establish Global Women Fresh. Their goal is to help women, like you, take stronger positions in the industry for a better future in fresh produce.

“We really wanted to take it to the next level and unite people from Latin America, Europe, the U.S.A., and Asia together on one platform.” - Julie Escobar (3:40 - 3:50)

Connecting, Inspiring, and Empowering Women Across the World in Agriculture

Global Women Fresh is the first global network created by women and for women in agriculture. 

Connect. Lack of capital is the biggest reason women-led businesses fail to succeed in agriculture. Global Women Fresh overcomes this obstacle by strategically networking and connecting investors. They bring in private equity groups and partner with financial institutions that educate, guide, and provide loans. Global Women Fresh also utilizes recruiting agencies and talent incubators to generate more jobs and opportunities for women everywhere.

Inspire. Global Women Fresh fosters open conversations on urgent current events. The non-profit organization specifically focuses on five pillars: Food Waste, Sustainability, Social Impact, Technology, and Innovation. Discussions are inclusive to every tier of the industry, from farmers to executives. Together, we can build a better economy and face the issues of our industry.

Empower. When you walk into a grocery store, you’re likely to see more mothers than fathers pushing carts down the aisle. Between 80% to 90% of shoppers are women. That’s right! We make most of the consumer-based decisions in our homes. Imagine what would happen if you, and more women, directly stepped into a place of responsibility and power in the produce supply chain?

“Food is there for women, whether you’re sitting in Indianapolis, Indiana, Los Angeles, California or South Africa. It’s the common denominator and love language around the world.”

 - Lori Taylor (17:24 - 17:40)

Food brings us together in times of celebration and grief. But the vegetables and fruits brought to the table need to be handled and monitored more responsibly. You can have a direct impact on and in the produce supply chain. 

Are you ready to join Julie and her team? Don’t be shy! The industry needs women like you. Head over to www.globalwomenfresh.com to send an email and learn more about how you can get involved. 

Represent and lead. The future of agriculture is counting on you.

How to get involved

  • Join The Produce Moms Group on Facebook and continue the discussion every week! 
  • Reach out to us - we’d love to hear more about where you are in life and business! Find out more here

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