Rum is not just a spirit but a story of tradition, passion, and resilience. Each bottle contains the work of expert hands, the vision of innovative minds, and the determination of passionate hearts. Today, women are leaving an indelible mark on every link in their production and commercial chain.

Women Leading Rum, a platform dedicated to making women in the sector visible and connecting them, has become a key space to celebrate their impact. From visionary CEOs to Master Blenders who create unmatched flavor profiles, to Brand Ambassadors who bring the legacy of rum to every corner of the world, women are redefining the industry with their talent, creativity, and determination.

On this International Women’s Day, we want to celebrate their voices, their stories, and their paths, because together we build a stronger, fairer, and more present and future.

“Women are a key part of the future of rum”

For Larissa Arjona, president of Women Leading Rum, female leadership not only strengthens the industry but transforms it, bringing innovation, empathy, and an inclusive approach. “Women are our allies. We support each other at all times because it is not about competing, but about joining forces to grow as a community and sector. We are creative, resilient, and passionate, and these values ​​are reflected in every project we undertake in the spirits industry.”

Larissa’s vision is clear: to build a solid network of women who find not only support and opportunities but also the recognition they deserve. “It is essential that each woman sees value in her work and that her contribution is celebrated. Women must listen to each other and learn from each other, without falling into judgment. The competition is not between us, but in how we can grow together, taking advantage of the unique and valuable things that each one brings.”

Larissa highlights the importance of her close circle of family and friends: “We are our biggest cheerleaders. We support each other at all times, celebrate achievements, and push each other to keep going. I feel very lucky to have them in my life.”

Authenticity and vulnerability: a new style of leadership

In a world where leadership has been associated with strength and perfection, a new vision emerges: authenticity and vulnerability as drivers of change. Dianne Medrano, CEO of Ron Centenario, embodies this evolution, challenging paradigms and paving the way for a more human and closer leadership.

Dianne believes in the importance of vulnerability and authenticity as transformative tools. “I am, more than a woman, a human being interested in vulnerability and the power of experiences,” she says. Her leadership, influenced by figures such as Therese Gearhart, is based on empathy, diversity, and inclusion.

Through this approach, Dianne fosters an environment where women can share their stories, fears, and achievements, creating real connections and challenging unattainable expectations.

Leading with character, empathy, and a smile

Priscila García Olmedilla, Export Manager of Ron Arehucas, is an example of a woman who challenged limits with determination and authenticity. With a cheerful personality and a strong character, Priscila believes that life is better when shared, and her passion for creating meaningful moments with family and friends defines her.

For Priscila, true female empowerment comes from collaboration, not competition. “We have to see ourselves as colleagues and not as rivals. We work and live better when we are easy-going people, but with clear boundaries,” she reflects. In her experience, it is often forgotten that learning is an exchange: “We can learn a lot from others and, at the same time, we have a lot to teach when we decide to collaborate instead of compete.”

For her, her mother is her greatest role model, as her generosity, humility, and strong values ​​have guided her through difficult and happy times. In addition, her aunt and her best friends have been fundamental in her personal and professional growth. 

“We rise when we push each other”

For Laura Soler, Marketing Manager at Cocuy Saroche and Canaima Gin, the key to empowering women is creating spaces where they are heard and valued. “We rise when we push each other forward. Genuine support, mentoring and collaboration are essential,” she emphasizes. In the business world, this means advocating for other women and fostering inclusive environments. In everyday life, it’s about leading by example and making sure no woman feels alone in her journey.

In her professional path, the women who have inspired her the most are her mother and her friends. “My mom taught me resilience, kindness, and the power of leading with empathy and strength,” she says. Her friends remind her of the importance of pursuing dreams with determination. “Seeing them face challenges drives me to be better. Their ambition and unwavering support show me that we grow more together.”

“My biggest competition is myself”

Marie El Hanafi, Brand Ambassador for Rum Nation and Ron Millonario, is a tireless woman, full of passion and resources. Her biggest competition, according to her, is herself. “Everything is a competition for me, and I love it! That motivates me to continue to excel, to improve every day.”

The women in her family have been her main source of inspiration. For Marie, the greatest strength that one woman can give to another is mutual support. “There is nothing more powerful than women lifting each other up, regardless of their differences. Listening, encouraging, speaking well of each other. That is how we build an unstoppable force,” she concludes with conviction.

Women’s Day: Be authentic, brave and human

On this International Women’s Day, Women Leading Rum celebrates not only the achievements but the essence of being a woman. In a world that asks us to be perfect and meet other people’s standards, we remember that true strength lies in being authentic, feeling, and taking care of ourselves.

Larissa Arjona, president of Women Leading Rum, says: “Today we celebrate all the women who, with their stories of success and resilience, are redefining the rum industry. We also celebrate those who have permitted themselves to be human, to feel, to rest, and to prioritize their well-being. Women Leading Rum is not just about ‘doing’, but about ‘being’. Strength is not measured only by what we do, but by how we take care of our essence.”

This Women’s Day, the message is clear: let’s work for our dreams, but also disconnect when we need to. Taking care of ourselves is essential to continue building the world we want. Happy International Women’s Day!