ASPIRE Conversation & Networking Event: From Crisis to a Multimillion-Dollar Food Empire

Join us for the next ASPIRE Conversation Series — an evening of networking, canapés, drinks and an intimate conversation with award-winning entrepreneur Diem Fuggersberger, founder and CEO of Berger Ingredients and Coco & Lucas’ Kitchen. This event will explore the real journey of entrepreneurship: the setbacks, reinventions, decisions and resilience required to build something enduring. Diem’s story is one of remarkable courage and perseverance. Born in Vietnam, she fled post-war Vietnam at the age of seven, survived a pirate attack and spent 15 months in Galang refugee camp before arriving in Australia. Years later, after building a business, she experienced a devastating collapse during the 2009 global financial crisis. Rather than walk away, Diem rebuilt from scratch — creating a multimillion-dollar food manufacturing business with products now stocked across thousands of major national supermarkets. Through Berger Foods, Diem has built a successful Australian food manufacturing business driven by entrepreneurial vision, innovation and a passion for better food experiences. From premium dry blends and culinary products to ready meals and baked cereals, her work spans retail, foodservice and export markets. Her ability to identify emerging trends, respond to changing consumer needs and turn ideas into commercially successful products has made her a respected leader in the food industry. Recognised as Optus Businesswoman of the Year, Diem continues to champion culinary innovation, resilience and sustainability. This will be a one-to-one, interview-style conversation hosted by ASPIRE, followed by plenty of time to connect with fellow professionals, founders and community leaders. Event Format 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM Networking, canapés and drinks 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM Conversation with Diem Fuggersberger 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM Networking over drinks Who Should Attend This event is designed for young professionals, entrepreneurs, founders, innovators and leaders across the STEAM fields who are interested in entrepreneurship, resilience, leadership and community connection. We are also pleased to welcome members from our community partners: Executive Wealth Circle — EWC University of Melbourne Chinese Alumni Network — UoMCAN Overseas Vietnamese — OV Crouching Tiger Network — CTN Venue Chinese Museum 22 Cohen Place Melbourne VIC 3000 Tickets Our last ASPIRE event was sold out. Please register early to secure your place. Limited early-bird tickets are available.