Women Leading Rum, the global platform championing women in the rum sector, announced its evolution into Women Leading Rum & Spirits, reflecting a broader mission to unite and elevate women across all spirits categories.

“As the industry grows and diversifies, so must we,” Larissa Arjona, President of Women Leading Rum & Spirits, said in a news release. “This transformation reflects the vital role women play throughout the entire spirits chain — from production and innovation to marketing and leadership. It’s about building a stronger, more inclusive community.”

The rebranded organization will continue to offer education, networking, and leadership development, now welcoming women from across the full spectrum of spirits, including whiskey, gin, vodka, tequila, mezcal, brandy, liqueurs, and beyond. A cornerstone of this next chapter is the launch of an international mentorship program, designed to connect emerging professionals with seasoned leaders. The program will provide personalized sessions, skill-building opportunities, and enhanced industry visibility.

Women Leading Rum & Spirits’ Core Goals:

• Celebrate and amplify women’s achievements across the spirits sector
• Provide training and professional development opportunities that will strengthen presence and leadership
• Encourage global networking and knowledge sharing among membership
• Champion equality, diversity, inclusion, and sisterhood in the sector
• Build community-led initiatives that empower female leadership

To support its global mission, Women Leading Rum & Spirits has developed a dynamic calendar of industry events and educational programming. In the first half of the year, the group participated in Miami Rum Congress, Mondial du Rhum, Rhum Fest Paris, Taste of Rum, the Spain Rum & Gin Expo and the New York Rum Fest. 

May marked the inaugural Women Leading Rum & Spirits Conference in Europe. Looking ahead, the group will be a part of the Panama Rum Fest, and will close the year with its first-ever WLR&S Bootcamp — a multi-day experience featuring panel discussions, tastings, mentorship sessions, and more.

Accompanying the transition is a complete rebrand by the award-winning Melbourne-based creative firm Studio Guild. Led by founder Trish Dunstone, the new identity is centered on a fluid and symbolic ampersand (“&”) that embodies inclusion, connection, and continual growth — core values of the expanded platform.

“This is a moment of unity and momentum,” Arjona added. “We invite all women across the spirits industry to join us as we continue to create space, drive progress, and lead together.”

The organization is open to all women in the global spirits sector who seek growth, connection, and impact.Learn more and join the community at https://womenleadingrum.com/.

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