Alla Ouvarova, CEO and Founder of Two Chicks, will be taking to the stage at Speciality & Fine Food Fair this year as part of a panel discussion entitled Diversity: More Than Just Ticking Boxes. Speciality & Fine Food Fair caught up with Alla to learn more about the topic and to hear some of her predictions for the future of food & drink. 

How do you feel about being part of the Fair’s seminar programme this year?

Very excited to be a part of the seminar programme as I’m a big fan of the Speciality & Fine Food Fair. We have exhibited there previously and I love all the healthy and high quality products one can find at the Fair.

What do you think might be some of the main talking points of your session?

The world seems to be waking up to DEI, but then takes a step back and there has recently been a backlash with big companies laying off their entire DEI teams.

For me, female empowerment in hugely important, as we are half of the population but this is not at all represented in senior positions or business ownership. We have set up our own initiative, Future Female Entrepreneur, to inspire and empower the next generation of female entrepreneurs.

Why is it important to discuss this topic?

For me, female empowerment in hugely important, as we are half of the population but this is not at all represented in senior positions or business ownership.

With an ageing population, it is important to not discriminate against age, people are fitter and living longer, we must change the way we view age and employment.

Sexuality and race should not come into it at all, and those less physically able but willing to work must be given a chance as well as full support.

We’re celebrating our 25th anniversary this year – do you have any predictions for the next 25 years in the speciality & fine food industry?

I really hope that people continue to learn about healthy eating, how that positively impacts our health, that we say not to junk and ultra processed foods and obesity becomes a thing of the past!

Check out the full seminar programme for this year's event at specialityandfinefoodfairs.co.uk/speciality-fine-food-seminar-programme.