The PCA 2025 New Orleans trade show is officially in the books. It was a great show and I, for one, enjoyed returning to New Orleans after 10 years. The weather was beautiful and there were a lot of PCA after-show experiences to choose from. Normally, Women of PCA has our happy hour on the last day of the show but this year we held our gathering on the opening night at Cuban Creations. It was a wonderful event with cigars from Quesada and Tobacco Queen, and the debut of Cigar TV’s Women of PCA documentary.
These types of events, in addition to our Facebook HERfs, could not happen without our committee members. They put a lot of hard work into making WoPCA successful. So, for this column, I’d like to introduce you to our membership committee.
Amanda Micallef, Vice President of Marketing, Micallef Cigars
Amanda Micallef oversees branding, storytelling and community engagement with Micallef Cigars, particularly through their Micallef Ambassador Program, which has become an incredible family of cigar enthusiasts who share our passion for the leaf.
What got you involved in the cigar industry?
I’ve always loved storytelling, and cigars are a product with deep heritage and tradition. The idea of building a community around cigars, supporting brick-and-mortar retailers, and crafting high-quality cigars spoke to my passion for both business and relationships.
Why did you want to be on the membership committee for Women of PCA?
Because representation matters. Women have always been a part of the cigar world, whether as master blenders, rollers, business leaders or passionate consumers. But for too long, we’ve been seen as a minority in an industry that should be welcoming to everyone. Being on this committee allows me to advocate for more visibility, connection and mentorship opportunities for women in premium cigars.
What were you most excited or passionate about at this year’s PCA trade show?
I was thrilled to see the strong turnout for the Women of PCA event. More people are showing real interest in learning about the incredible women shaping our industry. It’s exciting to see this momentum growing each year.
What was your favorite part of the trade show, aside from being on the show floor?
Being in New Orleans was a highlight. The PCA team did a fantastic job planning the show, and the city’s energy made it all the more special. It felt like a true celebration of our cigar community.
Mechelle Merkerson, Cigar Educator & Brand Consultant, Cigars with “M”
Since 2018, Mechelle Merkerson has been involved in the premium cigar industry, “transitioning from her role as a dedicated student of the leaf to becoming a prominent cigar educator.”
What got you involved in the cigar industry?
My journey into the cigar industry was driven by my curiosity. At 23, after seeing my dad and uncle enjoying cigars while I was growing up, I decided to ask my dad to teach me. I was always intrigued by the craftsmanship behind cigars—the rich history, and the artistry. That same curiosity led me to launch Cigars with “M”, a cigar education show that is dedicated to educating both new and seasoned enthusiasts while fostering a sense of community.
Why did you want to be on the membership committee for Women of PCA?
I wanted to be on the Women of PCA committee because representation and advocacy matter. Being on the committee allows me to help shape opportunities for women, create initiatives that foster mentorship and build a stronger, more inclusive network in the cigar community. It’s important to ensure that women in this industry have access to the same resources, recognition and growth opportunities.
What were you most excited or passionate about at this year’s PCA trade show?
I was most excited at the opportunity to connect with new exhibitors. As a media professional with PCA, one of my key goals is to help expand the reach of these emerging brands by introducing them to my engaged social community. I truly enjoyed learning about their new products and innovations, hearing the passion behind their stories, and creating content that brings visibility to their work. There’s something powerful about being a bridge between the creators and the consumers, and PCA continues to be the perfect space for that kind of meaningful connection.
What was your favorite part of the trade show, aside from being on the show floor?
My favorite part was witnessing the progress I’ve made in the industry with my business since last year. From being recognized by peers to building new relationships, connecting retailers with manufacturers, and sharing insights with new media and industry newcomers—it was a truly surreal moment. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve the cigar community as an educator. It’s an honor to contribute to an industry I deeply respect, and this experience reminded me just how far the journey has come.
Bianca Lopez, Director of Marketing, Gurkha Cigar Group, Inc.
Bianca Lopez has been in the cigar industry for more than a decade and handles all the marketing initiatives for Gurkha Cigar Group.
What got you involved in the cigar industry?
Right place, right time, right resume!
Why did you want to be on the membership committee for Women of PCA?
I have been in this industry since 2009 and have loved watching the face of the industry evolve. Seeing more women smoking cigars has been wonderful and I know how intimidating this industry can be. My involvement came with the hopes that I could work more with newer women in the industry to find their voice.
What were you most excited or passionate about at this year’s PCA trade show?
I was most excited to share our newest project: Volition America by Gurkha Cigars. The product represents America and it has a lot of symbolism of the American Flag, 13 Folds, and our military. Thirteen percent of our revenue is donated directly to Folds of Honor, granting scholarships to family members of fallen and disabled veterans and first responders.
What was your favorite part of the trade show, aside from being on the show floor?
I am always excited to see our retailers face-to-face. We work with them daily, but since I don’t travel much with our reps, I don’t get to see them in person very often. Over the years, they have all become friends and extended family, so it’s nice to catch up.
If you would like to join our email list, please contact us at womenofpca@PremiumCigars.org.
– Article contributed by Kathleen Kelly, Queensbury Cigar & Pipe.
This story first appeared in PCA The Magazine, Volume 2, 2025. To receive a copy of this magazine, you must be a current PCA member. Join or renew today at premiumcigars.org/membership.