Iris Meck was honored with The Notable Lifetime Achiever Award at the 2024 Women in Ag Awards, held using the Advancing Women in Ag Conference in mid-March. Recognized during The Notables reception in Calgary, Iris's journey from her roots on a family farm in Manitoba to becoming a trailblazer for women in agribusiness underscores her resilience, determination, and dedication.
With a foundation built on the values of hard work, integrity, and community, Iris pursued higher education, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture and a Certificate in Management from the University of Manitoba.
Her career, marked by groundbreaking achievements and barrier-breaking roles, has been a reflection of her belief that gender should never be a barrier to success in agribusiness. "Breaking barriers and defying expectations, she blazed a trail for women in agri-business, proving that gender is no obstacle to success," said Art Froechlich, Owner/President & CEO of AgriView at the award ceremony.
In 1999, Iris founded IMCI, a communications and marketing firm focusing on agriculture, through which she launched impactful initiatives showcasing her visionary leadership. "Through IMCI, our honoree became a driving force behind some of the most impactful initiatives in the industry, showcasing her visionary leadership and innovative approach to agricultural advancement," continued Dianne Finstad, Freelance Agriculture / Rodeo Writer/Broadcaster and Master of Ceremonies for the event.
However, it is her creation of the Advancing Women Conference in 2014 that stands as a hallmark of her commitment to elevating women in agriculture. This platform has united thousands of women from across North America, offering unparalleled opportunities for growth, mentorship, and professional development.
"Recognizing the need to elevate and empower women in agriculture, our honoree envisioned a platform where aspiring leaders could gather, connect, and inspire one another to reach new heights of achievement," emphasized Froechlich.
Iris Meck’s story is not just one of personal achievement but of the collective advancement of women in the agriculture sector. Her efforts have paved the way for future generations of women to pursue their passions in agriculture, making the industry more inclusive and diverse.
As we celebrate Iris Meck's achievements, her legacy serves as a reminder of the powerful impact one individual can have on transforming an industry and empowering those who follow. Her work continues to inspire and motivate women in agriculture, ensuring their voices are heard, and their contributions recognized.
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