Women in Food Summit Highlights Calls for Equality and Disruption

March 19, 2026

The recent Women in Food (WiF) summit, held at the Verdura Resort in Agrigento, Italy, sparked discussions on gender equality, power dynamics, and the need for systemic change within the food, wine, and hospitality industries. The event, organized by Cook and Corriere della Sera, brought together over 50 Italian and foreign guests, including chefs, entrepreneurs, producers, and writers.

Taking Ownership and Challenging the Status Quo

A central theme emerging from the summit was the importance of women taking initiative and challenging existing structures. Writer Stefania Auci, speaking at the event, emphasized the need for women to proactively create change, stating, “Men don’t change their minds, we must be the ones to take things into our own hands.” This sentiment underscored a broader call for self-determination and a rejection of waiting for external validation or permission.

Addressing Systemic Issues of Power and Inequality

Economist Azzurra Rinaldi addressed the intersection of sex, power, and money, criticizing a “capitalist-patriarchal system” that disproportionately burdens women with emotional, mental, and caregiving responsibilities without adequate recognition or compensation. Rinaldi argued that this system often frames these burdens as inherent female inadequacies, perpetuating inequality.

The Power of Disobedience and Gender Consciousness

Philosopher Francesca Romana Recchia Luciani advocated for reclaiming the concept of “disobedience” as a tool for self-determination. She framed this as an “acquisition of one’s gender consciousness,” encouraging women to challenge norms and assert their agency.

Breaking Cycles of Abuse in the Culinary World

American food writer Ruth Reichl addressed the recent abuses within the restaurant industry, specifically referencing the issues at Noma. She highlighted a pattern where abusive behavior is often perpetuated by male chefs who themselves experienced abuse in their youth. Reichl proposed that female chefs, entering the kitchen with less historical baggage, have the opportunity to establish a new standard of leadership – one that is visionary but not violent.

Looking Ahead: WiF 2027

The WiF summit concluded with a commitment to continue the conversation and drive progress toward a more equitable society. The next Women in Food event is scheduled to take place from March 16 to 18, 2027, at Borgo Egnazia in Puglia, Italy.

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