It is hard to believe how quickly time flies. Back in June 2021, I interviewed Elisha Chan, who was the then Executive Director of Fair Trade Los Angeles. Fast forward to June 2024, and the organization welcomed Becca Dunn as its new leader. Whenever I attend local get-togethers—like roasting s'mores with fair trade chocolate at Dockweiler State Beach—I am reminded of how far we've come. The foundation of this organization was built by Joan Harper, FTLA’s co-founder and longtime leader who rightly gets recognized at every turn. While I haven't interviewed Joan myself, I've loved watching her vision blossom. I recently sent Becca a few questions to learn more about her leadership journey and what keeps her motivated.
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| Nancy (me) & Becca Dunn |
NANCY: First off, can you tell me a bit about you? How did you discover “fair trade” and pursue a career in this realm?
BECCA: My interest in fair trade grew out of experiences I had when I was younger. I spent six months studying in Kolkata, India, and later lived in Antwerp, Belgium, where I supported women leaving the sex industry. Those experiences made me think much more deeply about exploitation, poverty, and the impact our everyday choices can have on people around the world.
I was first introduced to fair trade during a university service trip to Greece and Italy. I loved that it offered people a practical way to support dignified work and create change through something as simple as what they buy. Over time, that interest grew into a career focused on helping people understand fair trade and making it more accessible in their own communities.
NANCY: How did you learn about Fair Trade LA? Can you tell our readers a bit about FTLA?
BECCA: I first became involved with Fair Trade LA through its community and events. I was immediately drawn to the way the organization brings together fair trade businesses, advocates, volunteers, and everyday shoppers.
Fair Trade LA is a nonprofit organization working to grow the fair trade movement throughout Los Angeles. In 2020, Los Angeles was officially recognized as a Fair Trade City, making it the largest Fair Trade City in North America. Our work includes public education, community events, business partnerships, advocacy, and helping people discover products and companies that put people and the planet first.
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| Largest Fair Trade Dinner ever. Joan Harper & me on the left. |
NANCY: You’re now the Executive Director of Fair Trade LA. What are your main responsibilities and what might readers like to know?
BECCA: As Executive Director, I wear a lot of hats! I oversee our events, partnerships, fundraising, communications, podcast, membership, and community outreach. I also represent Fair Trade LA in conversations about responsible sourcing and procurement, including serving on an LA28 Community Business and Procurement Working Group.
One thing readers might not realize is that Fair Trade LA currently has a very small team, so much of the day-to-day work comes directly through me and our dedicated volunteers and board members. It is busy, but I love getting to connect people who care about fair trade and finding creative ways to grow the movement.
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| Fair Trade gathering with Silent Auction |
NANCY: I know I’ve enjoyed attending some of FTLA’s special dinners and events. Is there anything in particular you’re most proud of, something you planned or you were involved with during your tenure as Executive Director?
BECCA: One of the things I’m most proud of is creating events that make fair trade feel welcoming, interesting, and tangible. Our World’s First Fair Fan Zone brought fair trade together with football during the 2026 World Cup. It featured 20 fair trade vendors representing products connected to 18 countries, along with live screen printing, crafts, activities, and giveaways.
The event also gave us an opportunity to demonstrate how fair trade could be incorporated into major sporting events as Los Angeles prepares for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. It was exciting to see people connect with fair trade through sport, community, and something genuinely fun.
I’m also very proud of our Fair Care Package project following the Los Angeles wildfires. With the help of our community, we provided thoughtfully assembled packages to 100 people affected by the fires.
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| Fair Trade LA meets 2026 World Cup |
NANCY: Oh yes! The FTLA Podcast. I’m impressed with all the interesting people you’ve interviewed. Any sneak peeks for what might come up in the future?
BECCA: Thank you! The podcast is called Fair Talks, and it has now reached listeners in more than 65 countries. I love having honest conversations with the people behind fair trade businesses, certifications, and organizations.
We have several exciting conversations planned that explore the future of fair trade across different sectors. I’m especially interested in looking beyond the products people traditionally associate with fair trade and exploring its role in areas such as sports, beauty, fashion, food, travel, hospitality, entertainment, and major events. I want the podcast to show how fair trade principles can help shape the future of business and responsible sourcing, while continuing to bring a wider range of voices and experiences into the conversation.
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| FTLA Podcast, Buy Fair & Live Fair |
NANCY: One thing I’ve noticed about you with respect to FTLA is how personable you are. I’ve been around you while you deal with other members and attendees at events. You seem to make everyone feel important and heard. I also am impressed with your public speaking. Is there a trick to doing this so well?
BECCA: That is very kind of you to say! I don’t know if there is a trick, but I genuinely enjoy learning about people and hearing their stories. Fair trade is built around the idea that every person matters, so I try to carry that into the way I lead and communicate.
With public speaking, I try to focus less on giving a perfect performance and more on helping people connect with the message. When I care about the subject and speak in a way that feels natural, it becomes much easier. I still get nervous sometimes, but I think warmth and sincerity matter more than being perfectly polished.
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| Becca speaks to a group of fair traders |
NANCY: I know you work tirelessly to support fair trade. Do you have any suggestions for people who’d like to get more involved in promoting fair trade other than only purchasing ethically made goods?
BECCA: There are so many ways to become involved. People can ask their favorite stores, workplaces, schools, restaurants, and places of worship to offer fair trade products. They can attend local events, volunteer, share information on social media, invite friends to support fair trade businesses, or become a member of Fair Trade LA.
People can also advocate for responsible purchasing within their workplaces or local government. Institutional purchasing can make an enormous difference because a single decision can affect thousands of products. You do not have to be an expert. Asking questions such as “Who made this?” or “Could we find a fair trade option?” is a meaningful place to start.
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| FTLA organizes holiday sales at local churches |
NANCY: When you’re not working on FTLA issues, what do you do for fun? Do you have a favorite hobby?
BECCA: I love traveling, exploring new places, and spending time outside with my husband, Kris, and our three-year-old son, Callen. I also enjoy discovering independent businesses, restaurants, and markets, which often overlaps with my fair trade work!
My family is British, so we spend time in the UK whenever we can. I love learning about different cultures, meeting people, and finding the stories behind the places we visit.
NANCY: Is there anything you’d like to add?
BECCA: I would encourage people not to feel that they have to make every purchase perfectly. Fair trade is about taking meaningful steps and recognizing the power we have when we act collectively. Start with one product you purchase regularly, learn more about the people who make it, and go from there.
Fair Trade LA is also a community, and we would love for more people and businesses to become involved. You can learn more through our website, follow us on social media, attend an event, listen to Fair Talks, or become a member.
# end of interview #
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| Fair Trade LA friends at a Dockweiler Beach bonfire |
As a verified member of the Fair Trade Federation, Dunitz & Company is proud to be one of the founding business members of Fair Trade LA. My days are completely consumed by running Dunitz, so I’ve always been more of an active participant in FTLA than a behind-the-scenes planner. That makes me appreciate leaders like Becca even more! Speaking of the Fair Talks podcast —years ago, Elisha invited me to be a guest. I shied away because public speaking makes me nervous. Today, I actually have a few ideas I'd love to chat about if Becca ever invites me on. First, I just need to conquer my stage fright! I highly encourage everyone to check out the FTLA website, listen to the podcast, and join us at the next local event. - ND
