Engaging and empowering young people to transform agrifood systems is essential for building a sustainable, resilient, and equitable future while driving progress toward global goals like Zero Hunger (SDG 2). By supporting youth leadership, encouraging innovation, and fostering inclusive participation, young individuals can lead impactful change in agrifood systems.

The World Food Forum (WFF), established in 2021 by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Youth Committee, is a global platform that champions these goals. Hosted within FAO, the WFF facilitates collective action and innovative solutions to address challenges in agrifood systems, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and a future free from hunger. Through initiatives focused on youth-led action, scientific advancements, and strategic investment, the WFF mobilizes local, regional, and international collaborations to shape sustainable food systems.

Central to this mission is the WFF Global Youth Action initiative, designed to channel the energy and creativity of young people into actionable outcomes. By amplifying youth participation in food governance and acting as a hub for knowledge and innovation, this initiative inspires solutions that align with the UN Youth 2030 Strategy and priorities from the 2021 UN Food Systems Summit. Through its programs, including education, innovation, and cultural exchanges, it fosters partnerships and collaboration to address pressing issues like food insecurity and climate change.

A highlight of the initiative is the annual flagship event, a culmination of year-round activities that unite individuals across generations to discuss and act on pressing agrifood topics. At its core is the Youth Assembly, a platform that invites young individuals and organizations to contribute to shaping policy, propose innovative ideas, and develop collaborative solutions. This assembly emphasizes the inclusion of youth perspectives in global policy frameworks, addressing challenges like food insecurity, climate change, and inequality, which disproportionately impact younger generations.

To guide its efforts, the WFF Youth Policy Board (YPB) was created in 2022. Comprising young leaders from around the world, the YPB advises the Youth Assembly, identifies policy priorities, and ensures youth voices are represented in decision-making processes. Members lead consultations, craft recommendations, and represent youth perspectives at key events, fostering an environment of inclusion, innovation, and action.

YPB members play an instrumental role in implementing the Global Youth Action Plan by facilitating regional and thematic consultations, conducting research, and gathering youth perspectives to develop advocacy strategies. Their work ensures that young voices influence decision-making processes, enabling tangible progress in transforming agrifood systems.

The WFF prioritizes integrity, collaboration, and inclusivity, encouraging diverse participation, particularly from women, Indigenous Peoples, and underrepresented communities. By committing time and expertise, YPB members actively contribute to shaping global and regional strategies for a sustainable agrifood future.

Applicants for the YPB must meet specific criteria, including educational qualifications, language proficiency, and a demonstrated passion for agrifood systems transformation. Special consideration is given to individuals from marginalized communities or with experience in youth advocacy. Members are expected to dedicate their efforts toward advancing the WFF’s mission, showcasing leadership, and fostering a proactive, solution-oriented mindset.

Through these collective efforts, the WFF and its Youth Policy Board aim to build a future where agrifood systems are equitable, resilient, and sustainable, driven by the leadership and innovation of young people around the world.

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