MILLEN, GA. — The Southeast Produce Council (SEPC) is now accepting applications for the 2026 class of the Next Generation Leadership Academy (NGLA).

NGLA is a professional development program for the produce industry to grow leadership skills and learn how to navigate industry challenges, SEPC said. The 2026 class will be introduced during the Keynote Brunch at the 2025 Southern Exposure and will graduate at the 2026 Southern Exposure.

“We created this program for the future leaders of our industry to cultivate consciousness and courageous leaders,” said Raina Nelson, past SEPC chairman, Westfalia Fruit USA. “It is where passion meets purpose — these leaders will shape the produce industry through innovation, integrity, and heart. It was a unique, customized program and greatness grows out of this program. Class 3 nominations are now open, so encourage your future leaders to apply.”

“The NGLA Program not only provided a great opportunity to network with other great industry leaders but also dive deeper into understanding yourself along with other personality types,” said Matt Zapczynski, NGLA Class 1, retail promotion director for the Idaho Potato Commission. “The SEPC continues to set itself apart from other organizations with these programs which encourage self-growth, offer a promising future for the produce industry and foster lifelong connections (friendships) which prove invaluable as we all navigate this ever-changing environment that we know and love.”

“The NGLA empowers fresh produce industry leaders to create a lasting positive impact on themselves and teams within the ever-evolving landscape in the produce supply chain,” said Leah Patterson, NGLA Class 1, produce sales manager for UNFI. “I was able to connect with other emerging leaders to collaborate on opportunities and solutions impacting our industry for years to come. To drive actual change while continuing y leadership journey has been invaluable.”

Applications will close Feb. 7, 2025, at 5 p.m. EST, and can be submitted here.

SEPC shared the following eligibility requirements:

  • Emerging leader in produce, mid-level manager or above
  • Employed in the produce industry for at least four years
  • Member in “Good Standing” of the SEPC*
  • Must possess a vision for leadership, a strong drive to carry it out, and strong communications skills to convey why they believe they would be a good candidate for the program by submitting a short video for selection process

*To be in “Good Standing”, a member must actively participate in the SEPC by their attendance, contributions, or both and must be included in SEPC’s membership roll.

Questions can be directed to SEPC at [email protected] or (877)720-SEPC.