David Marin, a Director at Deliflor Americas S.A.S., Colombia, received the Young International Grower of the Year Award at an International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) awards ceremony held on Tuesday 28 January 2025 in Essen, Germany.

This award is part of the AIPH International Grower of the Year (IGOTY) Awards 2025, which celebrates the best of the best in ornamentals production. The Young IGOTY category recognises vibrant individuals, aged 25-40, who will lead the industry into the future. Entrants were participants of Jungle Talks’ Pro Manager Mastercourse.

David joined Deliflor in 2019. During his time with the company, David has been involved in implementing horticultural practices to optimise resource usage and minimise environmental impact. These practices include efficient water management and plant nutrition, as well as the incorporation of technologies that facilitate real-time monitoring.

“It’s a symbol of hard work, teamwork, and passionate work,” David said. “This award will inspire the company and the team, it will let them know that everything is possible.”

David, along with the other finalists, presented his ideas to an international jury of horticultural professionals. The judges were: Leonardo Capitanio, President of AIPH and owner of Vivai Capitanio, Italy; Colin Fernandes, Past YIGOTY winner and Trial Site Coordinator for Marginpar, Kenya; and Puck van Holsteijn, CEO of World Horti Center and CEO of HortiHeroes, Netherlands.

Leonardo Capitanio commented: “David stands out as an exceptional example of balance and expertise in the floriculture industry. The jury was particularly impressed by his ability to merge innovation with a broad understanding of the sector.

“David's ambition to develop sustainable markets, alongside his focus on commercial expansion and enhancing customer experiences, highlights his technical and commercial expertise. His ability to build high-performing teams and foster balanced growth demonstrates a rare long-term vision, making him a truly inspiring leader and a deserving winner of this prestigious award.”

For more information about David and each of the IGOTY 2025 winners, take a look at the digital Winners Brochure.

AIPH thanks Headline Sponsor MPS, Host Partner IPM Essen, Category Sponsors Chrysal, GLOBALG.A.P., and Verticalle, Event Sponsor Vitro Plus, Support Sponsors Landscape Istanbul Fair and MyPlant&Garden, and Founding Partner FloraCulture International for their continued support of the awards.