PARIS — The commitments established by the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) to improve gender equality in the industry earned the organization an innovation award from the International Dairy Federation (IDF).

IDFA received IDF’s Innovation in Women Empowerment award Oct. 18 at IDF World Dairy Summit 2024, honoring IDFA’s Women in Dairy network.

Senior vice president of trade and workforce policy Becky Rasdall collected the award on IDFA’s behalf during the event in Paris.

“Empowering women unlocks greater innovation, strengthens our decision-making and ensures the long-term sustainability of our industry,” Rasdall said.

The Women in Dairy network endeavors to improve recruiting, retention and gender equality in the dairy sector, while utilizing data-based reporting and tools, C-suite engagement, and professional and leadership development.

IDFA shared that its network now includes more than 1,100 industry professionals. The network’s calendar includes monthly educational and networking programming, mentoring circles throughout the year, in-person events and other efforts.

The organization’s inaugural Women’s Summit earlier this year in Washington brought together 50-plus women from the dairy industry to work toward establishing leaders and offer practical strategies to better support women at all levels of the dairy industry.

Additionally, IDFA in 2024 released its first State of Women in Dairy Report, gathering insights on attitudes, beliefs, behaviors and policies that impact women at various levels of the dairy supply chain. A second survey, currently in progress, will track the industry’s progress so IDFA can provide updates in its next State of Women in Dairy Report.