Elizabeth Chalas Berman
President & CEO - Continental Food and Beverage, Inca Kola USA
Elizabeth Chalas Berman, affectionately known as "Liz" to her colleagues and loved ones, is a distinguished leader whose remarkable career spans the realms of entrepreneurship, education, and humanitarianism. Her unwavering commitment to excellence, along with her passion for making a meaningful difference in the world, has led to a legacy of achievements that continues to inspire.
A Legacy of Entrepreneurial Success:
Currently serving as the President and CEO of Continental Food and Beverage, Inc. (CF&B), Liz has carved an impressive path in the corporate world. Under her astute leadership, CF&B proudly serves as the exclusive bottler of Inca Kola for The Coca Cola Company, a testament to her strategic acumen and innovative spirit.
A Champion for Humanity:
Beyond the boardroom, Liz's heart beats for humanitarian causes. She spearheaded CF&B's Community Outreach Department, exemplifying her commitment to supporting local, national, and international communities. For over two decades, Liz and her team have conducted annual humanitarian missions to the Dominican Republic, offering crucial medical screenings, essential vitamin supplements, and access to clean drinking water to over twenty thousand children and pregnant women so far.
A Passionate Educator and Educational Advocate:
Before her entrepreneurial journey, Liz dedicated fifteen years to teaching English as a Second Language in the Passaic City school system. Her impact extended beyond the classroom, as she served on the Executive Board of the Passaic Education Association, advocating tirelessly for teachers and students alike. Her leadership was further evidenced by her role as the District Chair of the New Jersey Education Association Annual Convention.
Today, Liz continues to champion education as a member of the Board of Trustees for Caldwell University, where she actively contributes to shaping the academic future of the institution. Her enduring commitment to education has not only left an indelible mark on her community but also serves as an ongoing source of inspiration for all those who believe in the transformative power of learning.
A Trailblazer in Business Associations:
Liz's involvement in the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC), where she served on the Board of Directors for six years, showcases her dedication to promoting Hispanic businesses. During her tenure, she held pivotal roles such as Region V Committee Chair and contributed to the success of the National Convention. Currently, she serves on the Corporate Advisory Board for the Morris County Hispanic American Chamber of Commerce.
Awards and Accolades:
Throughout her illustrious career, Liz has garnered numerous accolades, including the USHCC Latina Award, Entrepreneur of the Year by the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, Women of Excellence by the NY Women's Chamber of Commerce, and many more. Her efforts have also been recognized by The Boy Scouts of America, the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women Empowerment, and the Ford Motor Company, which honored her with the Mujer Legendaria De Ford Award.
Global Impact and Leadership:
In 2020, Liz traveled to Cairo, Egypt, where she served as a keynote speaker at the Women Economic Forum Entrepreneurs Council Foundation Conference. The Egyptian Government bestowed upon her the distinguished award of Excellence & Woman of the Decade in International Business, underscoring her global influence.
A Personal Journey:
Born in the Dominican Republic, Liz moved to New York City with her family at the age of four. Her journey is a testament to the American Dream, standing upon the shoulders of hardworking immigrant parents. Her father, Luis, became an industry icon and is credited as the founder of Inca Kola as a Hispanic brand in the USA.
Community Roots and Family Values:
Liz and her husband, Randy, have long been residents of Montclair, New Jersey, where they raised their two children, Melissa and Erik. They are proud grandparents of Lilliana, Luis, and Oliver, the sixth generation of the family to reside in Montclair.
Elizabeth Berman's life story is a testament to the power of dedication, entrepreneurship, and the profound impact one person can have on the world. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations and serve as a shining example of leadership and service.