News

The WPC congratulates Julio Kalazich, as he makes the transition from WPC International Advisor to WPC Director.

New International Advisors are welcomed to the World Potato Congress Inc.

Julio Kalazich, who has served as a WPC International Advisor representing South America for the past three years, was recently elevated to the role of Director with the World Potato Congress Inc.. A professor at the Universidad de Los Lagos’s Agronomy School in Osorno, South Chile, Julio brings a wealth of experience, both academic and practical, to his new role. He is currently Vice President of the Latin American Potato Association (ALAP), a member of the Board of the Chilean Potato Association, and the Chilean Academy of Agricultural Sciences.

In 1985, Julio earned a PhD in plant breeding from Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, under the guidance of Dr. Bob Plaisted, a renowned potato breeder. Throughout his career, Julio has made groundbreaking contributions, such as developing and launching 13 potato varieties, one of which is currently the second most important in Chile, with three others ranking among the top ten best-selling. From 2002 to 2010, he served as INIA Remehue’s Regional Director, followed by his appointment as INIA’s National Director from 2014 to 2018. His extensive experience extends internationally, having collaborated with institutions from several countries.

Julio joined the World Potato Congress Inc. in 2022 as an International Advisor and the WPC is pleased to announce his election to the WPC Board of Directors. With over 100 scientific and extension articles to his name, Julio’s achievements in agricultural research and the potato industry stand as a testament to his dedication and expertise.

“Julio’s remarkable career positions him as a key contributor to the WPC’s vision within the global potato landscape,” says WPC President Peter VanderZaag. “As our only representative from South America, Julio’s reach within the continent extends well beyond his home country.  He has provided exceptional supports from the World Potato Congress Inc. as an International Advisor over the past three years, and we look forward to working with him in this new capacity.”

World Potato Congress Inc.: The Role of International Advisors

The World Potato Congress governance includes the support of eight International Advisors who serve as the bridge between the World Potato Congress Inc. and the diverse regions they represent. These advisors are deeply embedded within their local potato industries, enabling them to provide valuable insights into regional trends, challenges, and market demands. Their expertise and connections ensure that the WPC remains at the forefront of potato-related conversations across continents.

The latest changeover brings fresh voices and perspectives to the WPC’s advisory body, with incoming International Advisors hailing from North America, Europe, and Africa.

These three accomplished women bring invaluable insights and experiences to the WPC governance and advisory table.

Krista Shaw, Canada

The World Potato Congress is pleased to announce the appointment of Krista Shaw as International Advisor. A distinguished leader with over 22 years of leadership experience, Krista has held key roles including Assistant Deputy Minister, Executive Director, and Director in both government and non-governmental organizations. Her extensive background has equipped her with a strong understanding of organizational governance, which she brings to her role alongside a deep passion for agriculture.

Currently serving as the Director of Stakeholder Relations at the Prince Edward Island Potato Board, Krista is deeply rooted in the agriculture industry, having grown up around family farm operations and married into Shaw Brothers Farm—PEI’s oldest family farm with an impressive 252-year legacy. Her deep understanding of the industry enables her to advocate for potato growers with insight and empathy, as she too experiences the challenges and triumphs faced by farmers on a personal level.

Krista’s academic achievements include a bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in Work, Organization, and Leadership, and she is on track to completing the CITP/FIBP designation (Certified International Trade Professional/Fellow of the Institute of British Freight Forwarders).

Her leadership acumen, coupled with her familial connection to agriculture, positions her as a remarkable asset to the World Potato Congress.  “Krista Shaw embodies the dedication, expertise, and vision that the World Potato Congress strives to uphold,” says the President of the World Potato Congress, Peter VanderZaag. “Her energy, leadership, expansion of expertise into international relations, and her professional experience and personal commitment to the agricultural community, will provide support and strengthen the mandate of the WPC and the global potato industry. We are thrilled to welcome her to our team and look forward to the knowledge and passion she will bring to this role.”

Berta Redondo, Europe

The World Potato Congress is delighted to announce the appointment of Berta Redondo as a new International Advisor from Europe. Berta brings a wealth of experience in agricultural communication and European policy advocacy.

Since January 2018, Berta has played a pivotal role at Europatat, the European Potato Trade Association, where she has served as Secretary General since September 2020. In her current role, she represents the interests of the European potato sector in both regional and global arenas. Her leadership responsibilities include daily management of the association, strategic communications, and policy dossiers addressing sustainability, agriculture, research, and innovation. Her dedication and expertise have made her a respected advocate for the European industry on multiple fronts.

Commenting on her new role, Berta said, “I am honoured to join the World Potato Congress as an International Advisor. The WPC is a key platform for promoting global collaboration and innovation in the potato sector. I look forward to contributing to its mission and to strengthening the connection between the European potato community and partners around the world. Together, we can address shared challenges and unlock new opportunities for this vital worldwide crop.”

Dinah Borus, Africa

As planning heads into full swing for the 2026 World Potato Congress event in Kenya, the WPC welcomes Dr Dinah Borus of Kenya as an International Advisor. Dinah is a dynamic and results-driven Agricultural Scientist specializing in Agronomy, recognized for strong ethical values, motivation and commitment to excellence. Dinah completed her PhD Research in Agronomy at The University of Tasmania (UTAS), Tasmania, Australia (2017) focusing on impacts of climate change on the potato productivity in Tasmania, Australia and Kenya. She is a two-time Awardee of Australia Agricultural Awards for Africa and a Fellow under USDA Borlaug Fellowship Program, Texas TTU, USA, 2022.

Dinah has over 17 years of experience working in the potato industry with an in-depth understanding of production, value addition, market linkages and agribusiness entrepreneurs, impacts of climate change, and sustainable and climate smart practices. As a Scientist at International Potato Center, CIP, for the most part of the years 2008-present, she has successfully led and implemented several potato-based projects in Kenya, Rwanda and other East and Central African countries. Fondly known as “Mama Viazi” among potato farmers in Kenya, Dinah has made a significant impact across nearly all the potato producing counties, working closely with both the public and private potato sectors.

Before joining CIP, Dinah worked at ICRAF (2005-2008) overseeing project design and implementation in several countries in Africa. She also has over a decade experience on extension programs having worked as an agricultural extension officer, Ministry of Agriculture, Kenya before joining CGIAR.

“Attending the 12th WPC in Adelaide, Australia, reminded me of my journey through research in Tasmania, Australia and reignited my passion for the humble tuber…” says Dinah.  “Now, I’m honoured to give back by showcasing Kenya’s potato potential to the world- as we prepare to host the 13th WPC. The journey comes full circle and 2026 is full of promise, it’s going to be spudacular!”

The World Potato Congress is well positioned with global representation to help guide the unfolding around its Strategic Plan and for the planning around the 2026 Congress in Kenya.