Empowered Women, Empowering Others: Shannon & Caroline Represent Prophet at the IFPA Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference
Empowered Women, Empowering Others: Shannon & Caroline Represent Prophet at the IFPA Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference
San Diego, CA | Last Week
Last week, Prophet proudly joined an unforgettable gathering of powerhouse women from across the fresh produce industry at the International Fresh Produce Association’s Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference in beautiful San Diego, California.
Representing Prophet’s North America division, Shannon and Caroline immersed themselves in a vibrant, energizing atmosphere filled with connection, inspiration, and career-defining conversations.
The week began with a truly special evening hosted at the stunning home of Fred Williamson and graciously organized by GoodFarms. The gathering brought together an intimate group of inspiring women over tacos, margaritas, and heartfelt discussion — a perfect kickoff to the week’s events. Prophet extends sincere thanks to the Williamson family for their warm hospitality and a special shoutout to Amalia Zimmerman-Lommel, Director of Social Responsibility at GoodFarms, whose warmth and leadership deeply resonated with Shannon and Caroline.
“Caroline and I had such a great time connecting with these spectacular women in produce. From powerhouse conversations to shared laughs and unforgettable moments — it was everything we needed and more,” said Shannon.
Throughout the conference, attendees were treated to thought-provoking keynotes and candid panel discussions. Highlights included:
Melissa J. Nixon, Founder & CEO of The Courage Company, who challenged attendees to step into the conference — and their careers — with courage and authenticity.
Erika Ayers Badan, CEO of Food52, who reminded everyone of the power of Authentic Leadership: Be Yourself, Lead with Impact.
Penny Zenker, who delivered two standout talks on focus and the clutter in our lives: Own Your Focus: Break the Addiction to Distraction and Do We Really Need So Much Stuff?
Giselle Ugarte, whose session on Controlling Your Online Image left attendees both inspired and empowered — especially after her poised response during an unexpected earthquake experience.
Britt Frank, who explored The Importance of Self-Awareness, providing tools to better understand ourselves as leaders and individuals.
Panel discussions brought forward voices from across the industry, including leaders like Olivia Storvik (Generous Brands), Yvette Speziani (Colour Republic), Maile Devers (Fowler Packing, Inc.), and the Women in Leadership, Unplugged panel featuring Cathy Burns (IFPA CEO), Stefanie Katzman, Sonya Constable, and Brianna Shales.
On the final day, discussions dove deeper with powerful sessions by Sara Neagu-Reed of IFPA and Amalia Zimmerman-Lommel, followed by a moving keynote from Dima Ghawi titled The Patriarchy: Recognizing and Countering Institutional Gender Bias. The event closed with an intergenerational conversation led by Mary Heslep, Leah Halverson, and Lucy Halverson, speaking on Growing Our Industry’s Next Crop of Female Influencers.
“What struck me most? We’re all so different — different journeys, roles, and walks of life — but the similarities in our stories were undeniable,” Shannon reflected. “It was a beautiful reminder that while our paths may look different, we’re all navigating chapters that resonate in one way or another.”
Representing Prophet at such a meaningful and empowering event was an honor, and both Shannon and Caroline left the conference feeling renewed, connected, and ready to continue uplifting others in their networks.
“Here’s to continued connection, growth, and supporting one another in and out of the produce world.” said Caroline.