Gender equity was in the spotlight at Natural Products Expo West this year, with Women In Nutraceuticals (WIN), the non-profit spearheaded by a cohort of global nutraceutical leaders, at the center of it all.
WIN was honored by the American Herbal Products Association with the 2024 Diversity & Inclusion award at the annual Member Meeting. The AHPA awards press release stated: Women In Nutraceuticals (WIN) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization focused on unlocking the professional and personal potential of women. The organization is igniting a movement to build support for women across the nutraceutical supply chain to help increase the percentage of women holding leadership roles, funding for female-led businesses, and women’s participation in research. AHPA is a proud partner of WIN and supporter of the organization’s efforts to advance women in the industry.
“The WIN leadership is honored and grateful to AHPA for this recognition of our role in advancing diversity and inclusion in the nutraceuticals industry,” said WIN President Heather Granato, who accepted the award. “It’s notable that AHPA itself has a diverse staff, including several women in high leadership positions. Being recognized by AHPA is particularly meaningful because of how much thought and discussion go into their selections.”
On Thursday afternoon, the community had the chance to celebrate at the second annual Gender Equity in Nutraceuticals Networking Event. More than 300 people enjoyed robust networking with like-minded industry members in the afternoon sunshine. “The power, importance and influence of women were front and center at Expo West this year—and this was particularly evident during the Gender Equity in Nutraceuticals networking event,” said Carlotta Mast, SVP and market leader for Informa Markets’ New Hope business. “We are thrilled to support Women In Nutraceuticals and the community through this event and our annual sponsorship as part of Informa’s efforts to strengthen the future of health and wellness.”
Multiple education sessions at the show focused on women’s health and inclusive leadership. Opportunities in Women’s Health focused on how the industry is responding to women’s unique health needs; WIN member Karen Hecht was among the panelists, noting “The panel discussion explored women’s health perspectives from CPG brands, entrepreneurs, consumers, and scientific research. Uniting these viewpoints is crucial for advancing women’s health and wellness into a bright future. The dynamic energy on and off the stage was palpable, inspiring us all and igniting a call to action!”
Cultivating Lead(her)ship, developed with One Step Closer, explored how to elevate women in leadership in natural products, and the incremental business benefits that delivers. Attendees had the opportunity to connect in small groups, sharing their own journeys and making connections to further their professional advancement. Further, sponsored sessions by organizations including MegaFood and Radicle Science dove into opportunities for brands to invest in female-focused research and develop tailored supplement products that address issues at various life stages.
For information about WIN events, membership, programs, and sponsorship opportunities, visit WomenInNutraceuticals.org.
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