The Annual International Women’s Coffee Alliance breakfast, held April 18, 2009, proved to be another exciting gathering of women – and men – from around the coffee world. In an effort to showcase the network that inspires, connects and empowers women working in the coffee industry, the 2009 Breakfast showcased two inspirational stories that celebrate the strength of women working to empower their lives and the lives of those in their communities.

Following welcome remarks by Co-Founder and President, Kimberly Easson, the group welcomed two extraordinary women in coffee: Esperanza Castillo, agronomist and general manager of CAC Pangoa Ltda, San Martin de Pangoa, Peru; and Vilma Ruiz Scop, director of social development projects, Finca Los Andes, in Guatemala. Both shared stories of how support through the efforts of IWCA, they have been able to further their businesses and strengthen the communities in which they live.

Following the emotion-packed stories, IWCA vice president, Launtia Taylor, presented the 2009 IWCA Grants Program Recipients, (WHO) and announced the upcoming IWCA participation in the 2010 ICO conference in Guatemala.

Adding to the excitement of the morning, A Letter of Understanding was signed for the formation of the IWCA Chapter in Nicaragua,

Thank you to outgoing president, Kimberly Easson, and outgoing directors: Kathy Berardo, Charlene Farmer, Kerri Goodman-Small, and Sherri Johns. New directors include Jennifer Lamb, Deborah Lindholm, Aimee Russillo, and Amena Smith.