Equitable Food Initiative is shining a light on National Gratitude Month and the people within the produce industry who have made a lasting impact on the lives of others.
While mentors in professional careers are often recognized, it's equally important to celebrate mentors in skilled labor, like farm work, where knowledge and experience are essential to success. Mentorship elicits a sense of gratitude and inspiration, whether in the field, the greenhouse, the packing house, or throughout the food supply chain.
At Stemilt Growers, crew boss Andres Aguilar stood out to Luis Cuevas as an inspiring leader with a deep dedication to his team. "Andres learned how to drive tractors, work irrigation systems, and even acquired his Washington state driver's license to drive his crew to different orchards," Cuevas recounted. "His strong work ethic continues to make him a hard-working leader who always thinks of ways to progress himself in any job."
L-R: LeAnne Ruzzamenti, Jose Luis Segura Suarez
Over at Horticola Cimarron SA de CV, Gabriela Silva expressed her deep gratitude for Jose Luis Segura Suarez. "Jose Luis taught me the basics that have helped me perform my activities, and today, he is one of the people who continues to teach me and who I can count on for advice. I recognize and applaud his desire to continue learning and preparing to give the best of himself," said Silva.
"Our industry is strengthened by those who mentor, inspire, and work tirelessly to uphold a culture of respect and care," said EFI marketing and communications director LeAnne Ruzzamenti. "We're honored to celebrate these connections and to recognize the incredible individuals who make a lasting difference."
Valentina Forero, a member of the GoodFarms team, also highlighted the importance of mentorship. "Everyone in the company has been generous with their time and experience so that I can really understand what they've built and further build on the positive things they've accomplished."
As EFI continues its mission to foster ethical labor practices and elevate workers within supply chains, it is highlighting stories of mentorship and gratitude as a reminder of the powerful human connections that drive the industry forward. These stories exemplify how influential figures within the industry shape individual careers and set a standard of excellence and integrity that is passed along to future generations.
To celebrate National Gratitude Month, everyone is encouraged to find more inspiration on EFI's social media channels and share their own gratitude stories that recognize the impact of mentorship, hard work, and community within the produce supply chain. These values are a cornerstone of EFI's mission, supporting a future where workers are respected, supported, and celebrated across all levels of the fresh produce industry.
For more information:
LeAnne R. Ruzzamenti
Equitable Food Initiative
Tel.: +1 (202) 524-0540
[email protected]
https://equitablefood.org/