The World Food Forum (WFF) is extending an invitation to Members of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and partners of the Forum to nominate Youth Representatives and Observers for the WFF Youth Assembly consultation cycle of 2024. The WFF Youth Assembly offers a dedicated and inclusive space for youth engagement in advocacy and policy discussions concerning agrifood systems.

Commencing its meetings in March 2024, the Youth Assembly will host thematic and regional virtual sessions throughout the year, culminating in a hybrid session during the WFF flagship event from October 14 to 18, 2024, in Rome, Italy. A comprehensive agenda will soon be accessible to delegations on the Youth Assembly's website. The overarching theme for the 2024 WFF cycle is "Good food for all, today and tomorrow."

Established in 2021 as an independent network of partners under FAO's auspices, the WFF serves as a leading global platform for shaping agrifood systems toward a more sustainable future, aligning with the objectives of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through youth-driven action, scientific innovation, and investment, the WFF fosters collaborative efforts and partnerships across sectors to promote sustainable, resilient, inclusive, and hunger-free food systems worldwide.

Within this framework, the WFF Global Youth Action initiative mobilizes youth participation in food governance, acting as a catalyst for engagement and a hub for youth-led solutions in food and agriculture-related fields. The Youth Assembly, as a central and inclusive platform, facilitates policy debates while also supporting youth through innovation awards and ongoing educational, cultural, and exhibition events.

Youth Representatives and Observers are kindly asked to:

1. Actively participate in co-creating the virtual Youth Assembly sessions throughout the year, starting in March, and engage in discussions leading up to the flagship event in October.
2. Prepare a statement related to the WFF 2024 theme and the priorities of their country/organization to be presented at the flagship event in October. Statements can be presented orally or in written form, in any of the official UN languages. Past statements from 2023 and 2022 are available online for reference.

Additional Engagement Opportunities:

Before the WFF Flagship Event:
- Engage with other youth groups and constituencies in the Youth Assembly.
- Discuss and develop policy recommendations pertinent to the organization, country, and/or region of the Representative/Observer.

During the WFF Flagship Event (October 14-18, 2024):
- Attend the various events hosted during the WFF flagship event, including the Youth Assembly.
- Organize and/or participate in bilateral meetings.
- Network with youth and stakeholders in agrifood systems from diverse backgrounds to exchange perspectives, gain insights, and establish partnerships.

After the WFF Flagship Event:
- Support and participate in the establishment of WFF National Chapters to promote local action aligned with the discussions held during the Youth Assembly.
- Communicate about the WFF flagship event and related initiatives/activities. Example articles from UNA Canada on the 2023 flagship event and the Irish delegation on the 2022 flagship event are available for reference.
- Report the outcomes of the Forum to relevant stakeholders.

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