Emma Choo attended GrowCanada 23 in Calgary, Alberta alongside Hello Canola and Manitoba Canola Growers Association (MCGA). Here is what she has to say about her experience at GrowCanada 23.
I am grateful for the opportunity to be a Hello Canola Ambassador to help educate consumers and be able to be part of the GrowCanada event. It is very empowering to be able to have access to such information, dialogue and community.
What is one takeaway from your experience at this event that you can apply in the future?
Everyone has a part to play in the larger dialogue and impact of the food systems around us. We cannot wait on other people to do the work and make a difference. We are each accountable for the actions we take and omit.
Was there personal value to you? If so, explain what you got out of the event.
I was very encouraged by the dialogue that was happening in the key decision-making space of food. As a food influencer, I am often positioned down the pipeline to hear after the fact and relay the messages. It helped me be informed of what was happening in the food industry on a higher level and understand my role better. Meeting key decision makers and farmers helped to humanize and lower the barrier of a vast industry.
What was it like to sit alongside Hello Canola at this event?
It was incredible! All the staff were so welcoming and educational and inspiring. They all love what they’re doing and I can see their passion!
Based on your experience at the event, is there anything you would like to see Hello Canola doing more of? Please explain.
Education. The other oils in the industry rely heavily on the messages put out into the public space. When people know more about a product and the benefits and the cons too (clarity is kindness!) then they are more prone to support and know how to use it properly. Rather than writing it off as a whole, using it for its major benefits or key factors can be a blessing!