Her Story
About Myisha
Myisha Nathaniel has spent approaching 12 to 13 years in the produce industry. Her main areas of expertise are brand strategy, product development, and collaborative partnerships. She earned a bachelor's degree in English American Literature and Culture from UCLA in 1999 with a minor in Spanish. Currently based in Stockton, California, Myisha is seeking a new role that aligns with her passion for connecting consumers with fresh, healthy food through thoughtful category strategy after her time at Westfalia Fruit ended. She serves as a board member of the Fresh Produce and Floral Council and mentors participants in its apprentice program. Myisha is also a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Incorporated where she sits on national boards serving women and children in underserved communities through projects including SWM 1922 cradle care. She attributes her success to being authentic to herself, the support of mentors and sponsors who speak her name in rooms she is not in, and fostering true authentic relationships through networking without burning bridges.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Myisha
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being authentic to myself and having mentors and sponsors who speak my name in rooms I'm not in. Networking and fostering true authentic relationships has been key, along with not being afraid to speak up and step outside my box.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I received was from Carla Harris at an IFPA women's retreat: always be yourself. Besides, everyone else has already taken. Being authentic allows building real relationships without imposter syndrome.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Make sure that you lean in. Be open to mentors and sponsors, speak up in crowded rooms, network, have integrity, and don't let up. Don't be afraid to speak up no matter who is in the room.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges are needing more progressive thinkers in higher positions and bringing in young minds to the industry, as we are losing influx of new talent. Opportunities lie in thinking outside the box to innovate in produce like grocery brands do, and evangelizing where food comes from.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Impact and intention are most important. With more years behind me than ahead, I want everything I do to have an impact on others, whether professionally or personally.
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