In March 2015 we were all flying to Bilbao. Something exciting was happening. Maria Canabal, the renewed food journalist has invited us to Parabere Forum, of which she is the president, for the first annual meeting that was happening in the lovely Basque city.

What is Parabere Forum?

Parabere Forum is an independent international platform featuring women’s views and voices on major food issues aiming to improve the state of gastronomy, food, nutrition and agriculture by engaging leaders in various fields, from business and academia to politics and social issues.

Deploying women’s experience and expertise across all generations and geographies, it offers practical discussions on how to overcome barriers and create new horizons and opportunities, both locally and globally, as well as in-depth and innovative debate on important ideas. Parabere forum also promotes the advancement of women world-wide via business and social networks.

The first edition of Parabere has gathered mostly women with a few male exceptions (a few great men who did not feel endangered being surrounded by mostly women). Chefs, journalists, entrepreneurs and many others flew to Bilbao from all over the world. There were many important names, but most of all wonderful persons. It was fascinating. Speakers and round table participants were fantastic – their stories were deeply touching and inspiring. New friendships and collaborations were born, there was a spirit of solidarity, connection, mutual support. Connections that were born there will last forever and ideas spread there are the seeds of change.

This year will feature debates as “Making it: how female food producers deal with barriers to success”,  “The refugee crisis, social and gender disadvantage … can the food world help make a difference?” and round table “Leading a team: best practices for the best food businesses” beside many inspiring speeches/stories, dinners and networking.

I can’t make it to Bari this year, but if you are free on 6th-7th March, I warmly advise you to register and fly to Italy to experience this lovely event. To Maria, her team and all participants I am wishing a wonderful gathering. I am sure it will be again unforgettable.

More: http://parabereforum.com