World Food Forum Global Youth Action Initiative 2026: Join a Global Network of Young Agrifood Changemakers

Overview

The World Food Forum Global Youth Action Initiative is an international platform designed to support youth-led action aimed at transforming agrifood systems. Led by the World Food Forum, which is an initiative of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the programme connects young people from diverse backgrounds and countries to collaborate on sustainable, inclusive, and resilient food systems. The network currently spans 62 countries and reaches tens of thousands of participants.

The initiative operates under the 2026 theme of Innovate today. Nourish tomorrow., encouraging participants to use creativity, knowledge, and collaboration to address challenges affecting food systems and communities. Key areas of focus include agricultural innovation, food security and nutrition, climate action and environmental sustainability, research and technology, and policy and advocacy. Related offerings include the Young Chefs Programme and WFF National Youth Chapters.

Who can apply

The initiative is open to young people interested in contributing to the transformation of agrifood systems. Relevant participants include young farmers, agricultural entrepreneurs, students, recent graduates, researchers, innovators, food security and nutrition advocates, climate and environmental activists, community development practitioners, and youth-led organizations or social enterprises.

There is no specific age limit or detailed general eligibility checklist provided by the programme. Interested individuals can also participate by joining a WFF National Youth Chapter, with country-level platforms currently established in locations such as Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Ecuador, Egypt, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Nepal, Peru, Qatar, the Republic of Korea, and Spain. Individuals based in countries not explicitly listed, such as Zimbabwe, can explore the wider global initiative and contact the organization for other ways to participate.

How to apply

Individuals interested in the Global Youth Action Initiative can explore available programmes, national chapters, news, and participation opportunities through the official World Food Forum platform. Participants can also subscribe to the World Food Forum newsletter by providing a name, email address, and country to receive updates on activities and involvement opportunities.