From the Chair

WOW! is the word that summarizes my experience at our first FCSI Latin American Summit. It was held in Panama City, Panama a few weeks ago and it was a huge success. We had over 50 consultant members and 88 total attendees – we even had to close the registration due to space limitations. What a nice problem to have for an inaugural event for which we could not anticipate the response.

There were consultants and Allied members from all over the Americas in attendance, including a large contingent from Brazil, San Salvador, Chile and representatives from Mexico, Canada, and the United States. The languages spoken throughout the room were varied and we had live interpreters with in-ear translators for all attendees. This allowed everyone to listen in real time to the wonderful educational sessions. Thank you to the planning committee of Juan Matamoros, Emmanuel Melo, Veronica Millares and Bill Taunton. It has been a long time TAD goal to support to our Central and South American members with an event in their region. Look for another in 2025!

A highlight kick off to the conference was a presentation on Circular Economy by Lea Gejer. It reinforced ways that we can think about Cradle-to-Cradle economies. We had breakout sessions by many of our own members, who are always willing to share their knowledge. Juan Matamoros and his wife Diane have been actively involved in Food for the Soul, a non-profit organization that helps children in Central America not only with food insecurity but focuses on a wholistic approach of care. Please consider them in your charitable donations for the year - simply scan the QR code below to donate.

Now, to the fun stuff. The networking events were stellar as always. Wade, Penny and Daniel really know how to plan spectacular events. From our kick off with Panama hats and local rum tastings, to the finale at The Canal Museum in Casca Viejo, we met new friends, saw incredible local dance and heard sounds from the cultural Panamanian music. WOW!

Of course, none of this would be possible without our sponsors, who took a risk and supported the event not knowing if anyone would attend! I want to especially thank the Platinum sponsors Ali Group, Halton Innes, Hobart, TurboAir and Welbilt. Both Platinum and Gold sponsors were able to participate in a “speed dating”- style event during which each consultant attendee spent ten minutes with each sponsor. It was described as a “must do again,” so we will work to incorporate this activity into other events.

We also held productive TAD strategic planning and board meetings in Panama – with lively discussions about our FCSI TAD future. One of the proudest moments for me was when our moderator Sharon Rice stated, “It is very evident from the outside you all really care about each other and FCSI.” What a great assessment of our Board and our FCSI group. I look forward to sharing the meeting results in an upcoming DirectConnection or Town Hall.

Panama captured many of our hearts and I hope you consider it as a bucket list place to visit. The culture, the coffee, the Canal, the ceviche and the amazing city skyscape were all worth the visit. 

Next month we'll have all of the photos and a full write up about Panama. Stay tuned.

Enjoy the rest of your fall season. Cheers!

Christine Guyott, FCSI, RDN

Chair, FCSI The Americas