Women & Chocolate: A Brief History & Invitation to Be Part of A New Era for Women in the Industry

Description

What role have women really played in the story of chocolate, and where are they shaping its future? 

In this dynamic three-part workshop, cacao educator and Women of Cacao co-founder Ava J. Holmes invites members of the Fine Chocolate Industry Association into a nuanced conversation around gender, leadership, and opportunity across the cacao and chocolate value chain. 

We begin with a culturally historical overview of women in chocolate—tracing women's roles in early cultivation, preparation, and ritual use, through early colonialism, to the often under-recognized positions in today’s industry. Backed by industry insights, this section explores where women are leading, where gaps remain, and why it matters. 

From there, we introduce Women of Cacao, a global, bilingual network uniting professionals across sectors: from genetics and farming to chocolate making, science, and ceremony. Learn how this growing community is amplifying under-represented voices, and creating new pathways for collaboration, education, and leadership.

Finally, we open the doors to the Women of Cacao Summit 2026, a hybrid virtual and in-person global gathering. Discover how you can participate, as a speaker, a local host, or an attendee, and be part of a movement connecting thousands across the cacao world in a shared, values-driven experience. 

This is an invitation to see the industry through a wider lens, and to help shape what’s next.