Young women in science: Shaping the future of agrifood systems

As the world celebrates the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the World Food Forum (WFF)'s Global Youth Action Initiative (Youth Initiative) highlights the role of young women in shaping the future of agrifood systems. Through research, advocacy and collaboration, these women are tackling some of the most pressing global challenges in food security and sustainability.
Meet Ebba, Ana Luiza and Tarini, members of the WFF’s Young Scientists Group (YSG).
Ebba Engström: Bridging science and people
Ebba’s journey into science was shaped by early lessons in geography and history that explored the sociopolitical impact of agriculture. What began as an academic interest quickly became a passion for plant sciences and biotechnology. Today, her research takes an interdisciplinary approach, focusing on the complex interactions within agrifood systems.
Her work is not just about science; it is about people. From farmers to consumers, Ebba is inspired by the individuals who make up these systems. As a young scientist, she has navigated the challenges of institutional structures and peer review, learning the power of self-advocacy and constructive criticism.
Being part of the YSG has expanded her network, allowing her to engage in youth-focused agrifood research and collaborate on meaningful projects. It has provided a platform to share her insights and contribute to shaping a more inclusive and innovative food future.
Ana Luiza Domingos: From Nutrition Science to Global Agrifood Solutions
For Ana Luiza, the path to agrifood systems began with nutrition research in Indigenous communities in Brazil. Her early work took her across remote territories, immersing her in public health, anthropology and epidemiology. That experience sparked a deep curiosity, leading her to explore broader agrifood systems transformations.
Her passion lies in tackling multifaceted agrifood challenges, from policy and sustainability to economic and environmental impacts. But the journey has not been without obstacles. Securing research funding and balancing motherhood with career progression have been among her greatest challenges. Seeing other women succeed in leadership roles has given her the confidence to push forward.
The YSG has been instrumental in her growth, equipping her with public speaking and leadership skills. Through its global platform, she has gained the tools to communicate complex scientific ideas to diverse audiences, reinforcing the importance of women’s voices in shaping agrifood systems.
Tarini Gupta: Advancing innovation in agrifood systems
Tarini’s passion for public health nutrition began during her undergraduate studies, where she discovered a systems-level approach to tackling food insecurity. Pursuing a Master of Public Health at Yale, she found mentors and peers who challenged and inspired her, deepening her commitment to the field.
Unlike many, Tarini’s path in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) was fully supported from a young age. She acknowledges the privilege of growing up in an environment that encouraged her scientific pursuits. One of the key challenges she faced was navigating authorship and collaboration dynamics in research. She learned to seek teams that encourage ethical teamwork and open dialogue.
Through the YSG, she has engaged with interdisciplinary actors working at the cutting edge of agrifood systems innovation. Conversations at the WFF flagship event reinforced her interest in AI-driven predictive farming, big data applications and climate-smart food security solutions. As the agrifood landscape evolves, she sees an urgent need to harness these technologies for resilience and sustainability.
The WFF’s Youth Initiative is committed to empowering young women in science by providing access to networks, mentorship and leadership opportunities. Through its global platform, young scientists like Ebba, Ana Luiza and Tarini are not only shaping the future of food but also inspiring the next generation of women to lead in agrifood research and innovation. Their journeys are a testament to the power of representation, collaboration and resilience. On this International Day of Women and Girls in Science, their stories serve as a powerful reminder that investing in women in STEM is key to building a more equitable, innovative and food-secure world.