The World Food Forum Hosts a Side Event at the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development

On 10 July, the World Food Forum (WFF) hosted a side event at the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) in New York. Titled "Empowering Youth for A Better Food Future – Driving Youth-led Agrifood Systems Transformation in a Post-COVID World," the event gathered young panelists who shared their insights and aspirations on transforming our agrifood systems through youth empowerment.

The panel discussion, moderated by the WFF Global Coordinator Kazuki Kitaoka, delved into crucial topics such as sustainable agriculture, youth engagement and the challenges and opportunities in a post-COVID world. The event aimed at amplifying the voices of young individuals and providing a platform for them to drive agrifood systems transformation towards a more sustainable and equitable future.

Among the young panelists were Bibek Shrestha, representing the WFF Youth Food Lab; Lana Weidgenant from ProVeg International; Fenna Timsi, Dutch UN Youth Representative on Human Rights and Security; Pramisha Thapaliya, Head of the WFF Youth Action track; David Giles, UN Youth Delegate for Ireland; Audrey Wong, WFF Youth Policy Board Member; and Christabelle Ong, Policy Advisor of the NYC Mayor’s Office of Food Policy. Their diverse backgrounds and experiences contributed to a comprehensive and dynamic discussion.

The event explored innovative strategies, youth-led initiatives and policy frameworks that can accelerate the transformation of agrifood systems worldwide. Panelists shared success stories, identified challenges and proposed actionable solutions to empower young people in shaping a better food future. The event was then closed by remarks from FAO Chief Economist Máximo Torero, who noted that it is important for young people to be active change makers in society.

By highlighting the critical role of youth in sustainable development, the WFF side event emphasized the urgency of fostering youth leadership and providing them with the necessary tools and opportunities to make a tangible impact.

The WFF remains committed to engaging and empowering youth, recognizing their potential as catalysts for change. Through events like these, the WFF aims to amplify the voices of young individuals and cultivate a global network of youth-led initiatives that drive agrifood systems transformation.

As we navigate the post-COVID world, it is imperative to harness the innovative spirit, passion and ideas of youth. By investing in their empowerment and inclusion, we can collectively build a more sustainable and resilient future.