Celebrating International Women’s Day at Kemin

On March 8, we join the global celebration of International Women’s Day, which highlights the need for equal rights and opportunities for women around the world. Kemin is proud to have a long history of strong female leadership, including our co-founder, Mary Nelson.  

In honor of International Women’s Day, we asked a few of our leaders to share why they’re passionate about Kemin and our vision to transform the lives of 80% of the world’s population and what inspired their career path. They also share advice for up-and-coming leaders. 

What do you enjoy about working at Kemin?

Serena Martini | R&D Associate Director, Kemin Food Technology | Cavriago, Italy

"How could one not be amazed by the thrill of discovering new solutions and the satisfaction of seeing them come to life? This is what Kemin does, keeping me inspired every day, combining my love for science with my desire to drive meaningful changes. It's the impact we can make through our work that fuels me the most: knowing that our efforts can lead to advancements that improve lives and contribute to a better future. The drive to push boundaries, overcome obstacles, and achieve excellence in both fields fuel my determination and creativity."

Michelle Lim | President, GSP – Enzymes | Singapore

"The global reach of the company allows us to work with and learn from colleagues and customers from many countries and cultures.  Kemin offers a balanced blend of professional and personal growth and a culture of respect for your other roles as a wife, mother, daughter, daughter-in-law, etc."

Amanda Formaro | Vice President Human Resources | Des Moines, Iowa

"I enjoy Kemin because it is truly an employee-focused company that values its people. Being family-owned, there is a strong sense of connection and purpose that drives the work we do. Kemin is continually growing and evolving, which makes every day both exciting and challenging. The constant innovation and change push me to grow professionally while contributing to meaningful work. It’s inspiring to be part of an organization that invests in its employees, fosters a supportive culture, and is always looking ahead to the future."

Karen Li | Vice President Worldwide Marketing | Des Moines, Iowa

"I love having the opportunity to shape the vision of marketing and develop a strong pipeline of commercial talents. I also enjoy working with a multi-cultural team of entrepreneurs across the globe."

Rita Lye | Regulatory Affairs Manager, Kemin Biologics | Selangor, Malaysia

"I like Kemin’s way of implementing strategies for continuous improvement. Our colleagues’ enthusiasm and passion has positively influenced me to be part Kemin’s mission on transforming the quality of life for the population."

Giseli Delacqua | Human Resources Director | Valinhos, Brazil

"I feel very connected with Kemin’s vision as it brings a global impact. Working to impact the quality of live every day is something I find incredibly motivating. It’s fulfilling to know that our work has the potential to benefit people around the world."

What inspired you to pursue the career path you’ve followed?

Serena Martini | R&D Associate Director, Kemin Food Technology | Cavriago, Italy

"I am incredibly proud and fortunate to say that my family is my greatest source of inspiration. Since I was young, I have been always fascinated by the intersection of science and life, the idea of creating something that could make a mark, how things work and need to find the quickest way for solving problems. My family has always been my biggest supporters and motivators.

"My grandparents, skilled builders and tireless workers, have always inspired me with their brilliance and creativity. I remember my father, on our mountain walks, easily switching from chemistry to physics, and my mother, the artist and the ultimate problem-solver of the family. Their influence and their untiring perseverance in achieving goals have always been a pillar of strength, driving me to pursue my dreams and teaching me how to react to unexpected events and failures. Over the years, this curiosity evolved into a commitment to research and development, where I found my true calling."

Michelle Lim | President, GSP – Enzymes | Singapore

"At Kemin, there are many examples of colleagues who started in one function and went on to take on new challenges in new areas, functions, and regions.  Their journeys and achievements provide valuable insights and motivation for me to take up new challenges when given the opportunities.  The vision of sustainably transforming the lives of 80% of the world’s population also continues to provide me with a sense of purpose and satisfaction."

Amanda Formaro | Vice President Human Resources | Des Moines, Iowa

"I pursued a degree in psychology and family studies because I’ve always been passionate about helping people. From the start, I knew I wanted a career that would allow me to make a meaningful impact on others. Human Resources has been the perfect path, as it gives me the opportunity to support both employees and the company in becoming the best versions of themselves. I love creating systems and resources that not only help people succeed at work but also provide support for their well-being outside of work. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of a field that blends strategy, development, and care for people."

Karen Li | Vice President Worldwide Marketing | Des Moines, Iowa

"I never followed a strict career path in the traditional sense, as I don’t believe there is only one single path. I just went for opportunities that interested me most, and took the challenges my managers threw at me. Now looking back, all the dots connected. Everyone has unlimited potential if you are daring to give it a try."

Rita Lye | Regulatory Affairs Manager, Kemin Biologics | Selangor, Malaysia

"Working in Regulatory Affairs gives me exposure to the latest Kemin R&D research outcomes. I am always excited to serve as the bridge between scientific research, legal compliance, and animal health and welfare."

Giseli Delacqua | Human Resources Director | Valinhos, Brazil

"Since I was a child, I wanted a career where I could make a positive impact on people’s lives. I thought about being a lawyer, psychologist, teacher, artist, banker… and then I realized that in all of these professions, people were my main customer.

"I started working very early, when I was 14 years old. I started as an apprentice in a large multinational company in Brazil in the Human Resources (HR) department. And it was a huge discovery, how much my eyes lit up when I discovered that I could impact people's lives within an organization, so HR gives me the opportunity to transform people´s lives. Guiding and developing people is something that makes my day happier."

What advice would you give to young women starting their careers?

Serena Martini | R&D Associate Director, Kemin Food Technology | Cavriago, Italy

"Follow your passion, be honest with yourself and remember that kindness does not mean weakness. Embrace the true luxuries in life: cherish your time, nourish your health, treasure your family, find satisfaction in your successes, seek enriching experiences, and live with a sense of purpose."

Michelle Lim | President, GSP – Enzymes | Singapore

"Believe in yourself that you can take on challenges and opportunities and stay resilient.  At the same time, seek out mentors who can guide and support you and give you the insights and inspiration you need."

Amanda Formaro | Vice President Human Resources | Des Moines, Iowa

"My advice to young women starting their careers is to be confident in their abilities and trust that they belong in every room they step into. Advocate for yourself, seek out mentors, and never be afraid to ask questions or take on new challenges. Focus on continuous learning and growth—your career will evolve, and being adaptable will set you apart. Most importantly, find a balance that works for you. Success isn’t just about work but about building a life that aligns with your values and passions. Believe in yourself, and don’t be afraid to take up space!"

Karen Li | Vice President Worldwide Marketing | Des Moines, Iowa

"Get yourself out of your comfort zone. Have the curiosity to try new things and new ideas. Take risks with passion and persistence in pursuing what you believe in, even when other opportunities might seem more enticing at the time."

Rita Lye | Regulatory Affairs Manager, Kemin Biologics | Selangor, Malaysia

"For young women starting their careers, it is important to be brave in embracing challenges and actively seek feedback and mentorship for advice."

Giseli Delacqua | Human Resources Director | Valinhos, Brazil

"Trust in your abilities and don’t be afraid to take on challenges. All of us are capable of more than we think. Also, embrace feedback as an opportunity for growth. Constructive criticism can help you improve and develop professionally."