The Emerging Leaders Are Back! And They're Going on a Road Trip!

Freddy Melero, Roseologist, Choice Farms

Being a member of the Emerging Leaders is something I've always wanted to do since I started in the floral industry in 2001. Young Execs, as it was formally known, was a program that had been somewhat forgotten about during that period. When I attended my first WF&FSA Management Institute about eight years ago I saw people I consider industry icons or legends cultivate great relationships with each other and that was something I always wanted to be a part of. I gathered, through talking with them, that a big reason they all had such great relationships with each other was thru the magic of networking at WF&FSA events. A lot of the people I look up to were at one point "emerging leaders." I don't like to date my senior members so I won't say any names but some people have been afforded 30-40 years plus of WF&FSA networking that has developed into very valuable relationships. These relationships cross over thru all segments of the floral industry; hard goods, fresh cut flowers, transportation etc.

It's really hard to quantify what a return on investment you get by being a part of such a great association like WF&FSA and actively participating by attending events; but as you look around WF&FSA you'll see many members who have very successful careers and businesses, and WF&FSA  as an association helps play a  key role in that.  Educational programs are one member benefit offered by WF&FSA and something I consider pretty priceless. The educational programs geared towards our industry help you learn things you didn't previously know or give you a refresher course on things you already know but may have forgotten somewhere along the way. Currently I am working with Dwight Larimer, President of DESIGN MASTER color tool, (who is also a WF&FSA Past President) in a mentoring program and I plan to share my experiences with all of you as we continue with the program. I thank WF&FSA for reviving the Emerging Leaders program and Tom Wolfe, Jr. for asking me to help him spread the word that it's back! I know the Emerging Leaders is considered the "under 40" club so, being 35 years old, I'm going to make the next 5 years COUNT by soaking in everything WF&FSA has to offer.  As well as encouraging and mentoring the next generation of leaders in our fabulous industry!

This year's Management institute offers an ALL NEW Emerging Leaders ROAD TRIP! Although it is geared towards Emerging Leaders, I'm glad WF&FSA has decided to allow those outside of that group to join us for this adventure. This year's WF&FSA Management Institute is what I'd like to consider the official kick off, or restart, to the Emerging Leaders program. Although it is not too late to join us, It is right around the corner... so what are you waiting for?! If you can't attend but still want to be a member of the Emerging Leaders group, or just want to know more about us, feel free to contact WF&FSA and they'll help you with any and all information you may need. 

I look forward to networking with you soon!