Women Leading Spirits (WLS) has announced partnerships with two international rum events in 2026, expanding its presence across Latin America and Europe in order to create new opportunities for member brands and female leaders in the spirits industry.

The organisation will collaborate with Ecuador’s 5th Rum & Gin Congress, taking place on 18 September, and UK Rum Fest, which will be held in London from 17-19 October.

Larissa Arjona, president of Women Leading Spirits, said: “Rum & Gin Congress Ecuador and UK Rum Fest are platforms that set trends and elevate industry standards. Being part of these spaces means opening doors, creating opportunities, and amplifying the voices of women who lead the sector. We are building bridges that connect talent, knowledge, and purpose on a global scale.”

As part of the partnership with Rum & Gin Congress, WLS members and partner brands will receive preferential participation opportunities at both the congress and the Ecuador Spirits Awards.

The second collaboration will see WLS take an active role at the 20th edition of UK Rum Fest, hosting a dedicated hub throughout the festival, providing a platform to showcase its initiatives while facilitating networking between brands, producers and industry professionals.

The programme will also include a leadership panel exploring innovation, sustainability and the future of the rum category, featuring female leaders from across the global drinks industry.

Women Leading Spirits partner brands will also benefit from preferential participation packages for the festival, increasing their visibility among producers, importers, distributors, retailers, hospitality professionals and international drinks media.

The collaborations mark a “significant step” in the organisation’s international growth strategy as it continues to champion greater representation and leadership opportunities for women across the global spirits sector.