In this FiNA Theater interview, we’ll move beyond the buzzword and into the real-world application of diversity in action. In 30 minutes, we’ll tackle the subject with a few diversity champions by discussing how we can build a better industry because of our differences. Be prepared for an inspiring talk that will leave you energized with fresh ideas about how to move the food and beverage industry forward.
Click here to download Speaker Presentation
Click here to download Speaker Presentation
Date & Time
Thursday October 26th, 2023 10:30am PDT
End Date & Time
Thursday October 26th, 2023 11:00am PDT
Location
Booth #1350
| MODERATOR |
 Audarshia TownsendContent Director, Food & Beverage Insider/SupplySide/Informa Markets A lifelong Chicagoan, Audarshia Townsend is a veteran food and beverage journalist who serves as the content director for Food & Beverage Insider. She also appears regularly on local and national media outlets to discuss food and beverage trends. When Townsend's not on the eats beat, she's an avid yogi and meditation practitioner. |
| SPEAKERS |
| Harper Hall (he/they) Global Flavor Applications and Technical Service Lead, Ingredion Incorporated Harper Hall joined Ingredion in 2007 and has over 15 years of industry experience as a food technologist. In 2019, they began their Diversity Equity and Inclusion journey with PRIDE at Ingredion as a member of the BRG (Business Resource Group) leadership team. Harper has supported PRIDE at various levels, from local team leadership to global president, and supports Ingredion’s overarching DEI initiatives such as self-ID, access, and policy creation. Beyond Ingredion, Harper’s work in DEI includes volunteerism with Informa’s JEDI Content Creation Advisory Council, Naturally Proud Network’s board of directors, and assisting Garden State Equality, New Jersey’s largest LGBTQ advocacy and education organization, with representation among other food companies operating within the state. Harper holds a Bachelor of Professional Studies in Baking and Pastry Arts Management from The Culinary Institute of America, and a Bachelor of Science in Culinology® from Southwest Minnesota State University. |
 Nina OduroCEO and Co-Founder, Dine Diaspora Nina Oduro is CEO and Co-founder of Dine Diaspora, a black-owned and women-owned company that connects people and brands to African diaspora food culture based in Washington, DC. Nina leads strategy and creative direction on partnerships by centering black foodways through marketing initiatives for companies such as Meta and World Food Program. In 2016, she co-founded Black Women in Food (BWIF) to address the gap in support and opportunities for black women’s advancement in the food and hospitality industry globally. Since its inception, BWIF has honored over 180 women across the food system around the world, provided entrepreneur grants, and created platforms for connection and learning. Nina has also contributed to strengthening diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives for the James Beard Foundation. As a champion for equity in the food and beverage industry, she has been featured as a Changemaker in DC’s food system by Washington City Paper and her work has been featured in publications such as Food and Wine, Sweet July, and Washingtonian. Nina received a master's from Columbia University and a bachelor’s from University of Virginia. |
Category FiNA Theater