World Food Forum Youth Policy Board 2027 to 2028

Applications are open for the World Food Forum Youth Policy Board 2027 to 2028, an international leadership opportunity for young people who want to contribute to food security, sustainable agriculture, youth empowerment, and global policy development. The initiative brings together young leaders from different countries, professional backgrounds, and communities to help ensure that youth perspectives are represented in decisions shaping the future of agrifood systems.

The World Food Forum (WFF) was established by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in 2021. It works to accelerate the transformation of agrifood systems through youth participation, science, innovation, and investment. Its Youth Policy Board provides strategic direction to the WFF Youth Assembly, supporting consultations, policy recommendations, and engagement with international institutions.

The Youth Policy Board is an independent group of 40 young changemakers. Members help gather perspectives from young people, develop recommendations, coordinate regional consultations, and advocate for stronger youth participation in policy discussions. The 2027 to 2028 cohort will contribute to regional youth engagement and preparations for the 2028 FAO Regional Conferences.

About the World Food Forum Youth Policy Board

The Youth Policy Board was launched in 2021 to provide a strategic youth led perspective to the policy activities of the WFF Youth Initiative. Through the Youth Assembly, it connects young people, youth organizations, and other stakeholders to exchange knowledge, identify shared priorities, and develop recommendations for more sustainable and inclusive agrifood systems.

Board members work with the Youth Assembly Secretariat, FAO Regional Offices, technical experts, youth organizations, and other partners. Their work helps connect the experiences of young people at community and national levels with regional and international policy processes.

The initiative supports wider sustainable development goals, particularly the goal of ending hunger and improving food security. It also promotes inclusive participation and recognizes the role young people can play in developing solutions for resilient food systems.

Opportunity Benefits

• Opportunity to contribute to international policy discussions on agrifood systems.

• Experience leading youth consultations and participatory engagement processes.

• Opportunities to develop policy recommendations and outcome documents.

• Exposure to collaboration with FAO Regional Offices and other stakeholders.

• Experience engaging with international governance and intergovernmental processes.

• Opportunities to connect with young leaders and youth organizations from diverse backgrounds.

• Development of leadership, communication, advocacy, and strategic thinking skills.

• A platform to represent youth perspectives in discussions about food security and sustainable development.

Roles and Responsibilities

Selected Youth Policy Board members will contribute to regional and thematic work, with each member having a primary area of responsibility.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading regional youth consultations: Organize and facilitate engagement activities to gather young people's views on the future of agrifood systems.

• Preparing for regional conferences: Support youth consultation processes ahead of the 2028 FAO Regional Conferences and engage with relevant regional bodies where appropriate.

• Building partnerships: Coordinate with FAO Regional Offices, the WFF Young Scientists Group, National Youth Chapters, and other relevant stakeholders.

• Developing policy recommendations: Synthesize the perspectives collected through consultations into recommendations and outcome documents.

• Supporting international advocacy: Represent the Youth Policy Board in relevant policy processes and conferences where applicable.

• Documenting progress: Prepare summaries of activities, achievements, and outcomes during the term.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Have graduated from high school and either completed or be enrolled in a bachelor's degree programme at the time of application.

• Be between 18 and 35 years old as of 30 April 2027.

• Be a national of a Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Member State.

• Demonstrate C1 level proficiency in spoken and written English. Knowledge of other official FAO languages is an advantage.

• Have demonstrated experience, knowledge, or a strong interest in agrifood systems, policy advocacy, and youth empowerment.

• Be available to attend at least one weekly Youth Policy Board meeting lasting one hour, scheduled within the stated meeting window of 09:00 to 18:00 Central European time.

• Be able to dedicate approximately 25 hours per month to Board activities.

• Demonstrate the ability to work effectively in an international and multicultural environment.

• Possess strong intercultural communication skills.

Selection Process

The official terms of reference outline a four stage selection process.

1. Initial review: The WFF Youth Assembly Secretariat reviews applications and assesses candidates according to eligibility and experience.
2. Shortlisting: A committee of youth organization representatives and, where feasible, National Youth Chapter policy focal points assesses applications. Shortlisted candidates are asked to submit a CV, a letter of recommendation, and a two minute video explaining how they would contribute to the Youth Policy Board and Youth Assembly.
3. Assessment by the outgoing Board: The outgoing Youth Policy Board evaluates shortlisted candidates' knowledge of agrifood systems, leadership skills, and policy expertise.
4. Interview: Top candidates are invited to interviews. Final decisions are based on interview performance and the overall assessment of candidates.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply through the official World Food Forum Youth Policy Board application page.

1. Visit the official website: Open the World Food Forum Youth Policy Board page to review the programme information and access the application form.
2. Read the terms of reference: Check the eligibility requirements, responsibilities, time commitment, and selection process carefully.
3. Complete the application form: Provide accurate information about your education, experience, interests, and suitability for the role.
4. Explain your contribution: Clearly communicate how your experience or perspective could support youth participation in agrifood systems policy and the work of the Youth Assembly.
5. Prepare for possible shortlisting: Candidates who advance to the next stage will be asked to submit a CV, a recommendation letter, and a two minute video explaining their proposed contribution.
6. Submit before the deadline: Ensure that your application is completed by 30 November 2026.