Inspiring the future: Junior World Food Day and World Food Forum celebrate young changemakers

Rome – Today, a vibrant gathering of young food enthusiasts, advocates, and creative minds filled the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) headquarters for Junior World Food Day, celebrated in conjunction with the World Food Forum School Assembly.

The dynamic event welcomed close to 1,000 students aged 8 to 14, fostering dialogue on the vital themes of food and sustainable agrifood systems.

With a focus on this year’s theme – Right to Foods for a Better Life and a Better Future – special guests, including Food Heroes and influencers, came together to spark inspiration and action among the youth.

“Today’s event is dedicated to you because you are the change-makers of the future,” FAO Director-General QU Dongyu said as he opened the event. “You are the real hope,” he remarked.

A Journey towards Sustainability

During his address to the assembly, the Director-General reflected on his upbringing in a rice-farming family in China, where he experienced hunger and poverty. He highlighted the importance of education and resilience, encouraging young attendees to embrace learning and explore their curiosity, as they hold the potential to find solutions for the future.

He also addressed the urgent need to transform agrifood systems to ensure that everyone has access to nutritious food. Emphasizing the value of food diversity, he explained that a varied diet is essential for providing the nutrients necessary for both physical and mental well-being.

Excitement and Engagement

The excitement peaked when Harlem Globetrotters players Darnell ‘Speedy’ Artis and Arysia 'Ace' Porter burst onto the stage, showcasing their remarkable ball-handling skills. With their unique blend of athleticism and entertainment, the Harlem Globetrotters have been leveraging their global reach to champion important causes that align with FAO’s mission to end hunger and improve food security. Darnell ‘Speedy’ Artis remarked, “These kids look up to us... We have the chance to make an impact. If we encourage them to eat healthily and explain the benefits, it’s a message that will stick.”

Renowned chef and Food Hero Max Mariola for his part took over the stage and gave a live, and lively, cooking demonstration with his son Mario. Reflecting on his childhood experiences in Italy, Mariola emphasized the importance of accessible and sustainable food choices, stating, “Food can be accessible and sustainable if we shop wisely and intelligently.”

Sustainable fashion advocate and Food Hero Matteo Ward was part of the day too, engaging the audience with his insights on making mindful choices as the world’s resources are interconnected. 

The event featured a live multilingual performance of the youth action music video by the Piccola Orchestra di Tor Pignattara and friends, communicating the call to action through music and dance. Throughout the School Assembly sessions, students participated in interactive quizzes and games that reinforced the importance of sustainability in food systems. The event kicked off with a performance by Egyptian singer Nouran Abutaleb. A captivating dance performance by the Union Internationale de la Marionnette from Indonesia also added an extra layer of culture to the event.

Among the inspiring voices at the event were Edward Kim and Ilina Kirti Srinivasulu, School Food Advocates; Andile Mnguni, Climate and Social Entrepreneur; and Shreyaa Venkat, Gender and Human Rights Youth Activist, who contributed to the rich dialogue on food systems.

A Collective Mission

In his closing remarks, FAO Director-General stressed that, given the complexities of the world, it is essential to follow the rules to create a shared future. He encouraged the young attendees to actively participate in shaping a brighter tomorrow through collaboration. The event was live-streamed, enabling many to join virtually and engage in the mission of promoting sustainable and inclusive agrifood systems for all.

Harlem Globetrotters in Tor Bella Monaca

As part of their participation to the Junior World Food Day, the legendary Globetrotters, FAO Food Heroes, visited Largo Mengaroni in Tor Bella Monaca, Rome. The event transformed the neighborhood into a vibrant stage for sports, acrobatics, and fun. During their visit, the Globetrotters engaged with local children, promoting discussions on healthy eating, reducing food waste, and fostering overall health and well-being. The event provided a unique opportunity for the community to learn about nutrition while enjoying a basketball clinic with the team members Arysia (Ace) Porter and Darnell “Speedy” Artis.

Chef Fatmata Binta

As the day continued, Chef Binta, recounted a story from her childhood that her grandmother had passed down on the Baobab tree, and its importance as the fruit of life.  She urged to continue respecting and valuing food, while not wasting it, to a group of students taking part in the Junior World Food Day activities.  The youngsters were treated to a special session where they participated in the making of her special dish “Baobab Parfait”.

Learning Opportunities

As part of the Junior World Food Day festivities, young participants were introduced to valuable resources that enhance their understanding of critical issues affecting food and agriculture.

This year's World Food Day children's activity book, titled "Rights to Foods," emphasizes the importance of nutritious food as a fundamental human right, essential for living an active and healthy life. It explores how factors like cost and accessibility significantly influence food choices, while also addressing the global challenges impacting our food systems. This engaging resource prepares young minds for the annual Poster Contest, where students are invited to showcase their creativity by designing a poster that symbolizes their favorite dish or recipe. The contest encourages participants to represent the importance of diverse, nutritious, safe, and affordable foods, reflecting what these concepts mean to them, their community, or the world. By submitting their artwork, students have the chance to win prizes and recognition from FAO offices globally, reinforcing their role in advocating for the "Right to Foods for a Better Life and a Better Future."