International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) announced that the 2023 winner of the Frieda Rapoport Caplan Women's Catalyst Award is Raina Nelson, president of Westfalia Produce.
The award, named after the industry legend in 2020, is given to someone in the industry who serves as a catalyst for women's success in the industry and is announced by the previous year's winner. 2022 winner Carrie Mack of Walmart welcomed Nelson into the cohort of Catalyst honorees during the Women's Fresh Perspectives Breakfast held on Saturday, October 21.
Right: Raina Nelson
"A nominator said that she 'has enriched the lives of countless women in the produce industry through providing guidance for women trying to navigate a male-dominated industry; engaging speakers and thought leaders who inspire and empower women to think outside the box on their path to leadership; and shared her insecurities and vulnerabilities, and how she overcame them, to help women in the industry realize their leadership dreams," said Mack.
Nelson was recognized on stage with a standing ovation right before the breakfast speaker's address.
"It is an incredible honor to be recognized as the 2023 recipient of the Frieda Rapoport Caplan Women's Catalyst Award," said Nelson. "Frieda's legacy is a vibrant light that still radiates throughout this industry and beyond. She was a pioneer who created significant change through purpose-driven action. I am truly humbled to be considered someone who carries her light forward."
For more information:
Ashley Sempowski
International Fresh Produce Association
[email protected]
https://www.freshproduce.com/