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CPMA Passion for Produce Program attracts record number of attendees

The Canadian Produce Marketing Association announced the participants for the 2015 Passion for Produce Program in Montreal.

As an added value to membership, PFP was created by the CPMA in 2010 to provide rising stars in the produce industry with the opportunity to accelerate their professional development through a unique mentoring experience at the Annual Convention and Trade Show. At 19 attendees, this is the largest number of participants to date.

“We are thrilled to have so many rising stars from some of the leading companies within our industry,” said Ron Lemaire, President, CPMA. “PFP provides mentoring and education in a fast-paced but fun setting where participants learn through targeted mentoring sessions and networking events. This program also gives participants the opportunity to increase their knowledge beyond the scope of their current role within the industry.”

Over the three day Convention and Trade Show, PFP candidates are partnered with industry mentors for off-site tours, interactive sessions, networking events, and more to learn all they can about the fresh produce industry in Canada. PFP candidates gain knowledge through first-hand experiences, discussions, and networking that empowers them to return to work with an enriched understanding and renewed enthusiasm for the produce industry. Candidates develop lasting relationships with mentors, fellow candidates, and other industry leaders that will guide them through their careers.

PFP has mentored 65 candidates to date and is proud to continue growing this program.

The CPMA is proud to announce the 2015 PFP candidates:

  • Gregory Bass of Metro Richelieu Inc.
  • Lynda Dick of Red Sun Farms
  • Peter Duckett of Loblaw
  • Sarah Friesen of Vineland Growers Co-operative Ltd.
  • Jack C. Hall of The Giumarra Cos.
  • Allen Hoang of Westmoreland Sales
  • Pierre Landry of QPMA Internship/Sobeys
  • Lex (Barry) Lexchin of Richard E. Ryan & Associates Ltd.
  • Fiona McLean of Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers
  • Justin Meilleur of Del Monte Fresh Produce Canada Inc.
  • Dorothy Redick of First Fruits Marketing of Washington LLC
  • Michael Rojas of AMC Direct Inc.
  • Susan Sipos of Nova Agri Inc.
  • Bryson Slade of Martin's Produce Sales
  • Michael Sousa of Mann Packing Co. Inc.
  • Jean-Luc Talbot of Metro Richelieu Inc.
  • Rhaymond Tuazon of Fresh Direct Produce Ltd.
  • Ryan Thomas of Markon Cooperative
  • Joel Veri of Exeter Produce
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By
Keith Loria

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