Oct 18, 2024

AFE’s 2024 Ambassador Award is presented

The American Floral Endowment (AFE) has announced Augusto Solano, executive president of Asocolflores, as the recipient of the 2024 AFE Ambassador Award. Solano was recognized on Oct. 3, 2024, during the Asocolflores Board of Directors meeting in Bogotá, Colombia.

Solano expressed gratitude for the award, noting its encouragement for further industry support. “This recognition encourages me to further support progress in our industry and promote research and innovation as essential pillars of sustainable growth,” Solano said.

The Ambassador Award honors individuals or organizations for leadership, advocacy, and service to AFE’s mission, which focuses on floriculture research, education, and innovation. AFE’s board selects recipients annually through a nomination process.

Solano has led Asocolflores, the Association of Colombian Flower Exporters, since 2000, playing a key role in promoting sustainable practices. His support for AFE includes contributions to research programs like the Thrips and Botrytis Campaign and Sustainabloom, which focus on improving pest management and sustainability in floriculture.

Debi Chedester, AFE’s executive director, praised Solano’s efforts, saying, “His support for and collaboration with AFE has helped us to uplift industry members through widespread education, innovation, and resources.”

This is the second year the AFE Ambassador Award has been presented.