SAEOPA celebrates women in natural products

In celebration of National Women’s Day, the Southern African Essential Oil Producers’ Association (SAEOPA) is acknowledging all women involved in our country’s essential and vegetable oils industry, including those behind the scenes.

The association was formed in 2000 by women and continues to be run mainly by motivated and dynamic women who work in the natural products industry. Pharmaceutical & Cosmetic Review spoke to Karen Swanepoel, executive director of SAEOPA, about diversity, inclusion and women empowerment in the industry.

She comments: “Celebrating Women’s Day is important, both nationally and within our industry. It shows that the contributions and dedication of female role-players in the essential and vegetable oils industry are not only mentioned but also acknowledged. Women are central and key role players at all levels in the farm to pharmacy value chain.”

A small commodity with a big impact

Karen and her female colleagues and industry associates are passionate about essential oils and vegetable oils and the industry supply chain. She says the industry spirit and sharing experiences brings them closer together to form a support system in a very small commodity.

We asked Karen how can more women be encouraged to pursue a career in the essential oils and vegetable oils industry? “We can do this by advocating the advantages of the niche industry and by showcasing the growing demand for natural products. There are a lot of special skills in the industry and people development is ongoing.

Her message to young women interested in a career in the natural products market is to persevere. “Believe in yourself and success will be achieved.”