EmpoderaClima is part of the Youth Co-host of the Food Systems Pavilion at COP28

Brazilian initiative was selected with other 12 organizations from around the world; goal is to bring a youth-led gender approach to food systems transformation

A global alliance of youth-led organizations will take the spotlight at COP28 as co-hosts of the Food Systems Pavilion. The Youth Co-host for the Food Systems Pavilion is a collective endeavor of organizations dedicated to addressing the global food system crisis, promoting sustainable and equitable solutions. In their role, they will lead events to demand bold political climate commitments, catalyze action and raise awareness of the urgent need for food systems transformation. EmpoderaClima was selected with 12 other organizations from around the globe, and aims to bring the gender and Global South perspective to the center of the discussions.

Besides EmpoderaClima, the following youth-led are part of the Youth Co-host of the Food Systems Pavilion at COP28: ACT4FOOD, ASDEV, CICS, Eco-Network Global, EmpoderaClima, Green Africa Youth Organisation, IAAS, IFSA, UN1FY, World Food Forum, YOUNGO Food and Agriculture Working Group, YPARD and Youth NetGlobal.

“This collaboration represents a diverse force dedicated to driving positive change in food systems. Together, our organizations amplify our collective voice and advocate for ambitious commitments and innovative solutions for global food systems”, says Glindys Virginia Luciano, Strategic Network Engagement Manager at YPARD.

The Food Systems Pavilion at COP28 serves as a pivotal platform within the broader climate discussions, building on dialogues from the Food Systems Pavilion at COP27 and the Youth Themed Day. This year’s pavilion will increase emphasis on the integral role of youth in shaping a more sustainable and equitable food system, highlighting gender equity, climate and environmental justice, and the role of indigenous and peasant communities in food production.

“A just transition is not possible without youth and communities in vulnerable situations at the center of discussions and solutions,” concludes Ms. Luciano.

Renata Koch Alvarenga, founder and executive director at EmpoderaClima, a Brazilian-based initiative, highlights the importance of bringing youth and gender perspectives to food systems. “We know women are disproportionately affected by the climate crisis, and when we acknowledge our role inside food systems, especially regarding agriculture, we understand how crucial it is to bring ecofeminist solutions to this important stage, especially having a Global South focus”, points Ms. Koch Alvarenga.

Moreover, Neville N. Suh, Team lead and Coordinator at ASDEV, a Cameroon based research organization, highlights the importance of climate resilience.

“Amplifying understudied climate change-related issues and promoting climate-resilient strategies is crucial to support food system transformation and resilient livelihoods for resource-poor, marginalized, and vulnerable communities. Achieving this requires engaging youths on all fronts,” Mr. Suh adds.

With the youth perspective and co-creation, the Food Systems Pavilion at COP28 will be the opportunity to witness the unwavering dedication and passion of these youth-led organizations as they work diligently to address the most critical food-related challenges facing our planet.

For additional information and to connect with the Youth Co-host for the Food Systems Pavilion at COP28, please contact: Glindys Virginia Luciano, Strategic Network Engagement Manager at Young Professionals for Agricultural Development (YPARD), glindys.luciano@ypard.net.

For additional information and to connect with the Food Systems Pavilion, please contact: Nadia Papasidero, Food Systems Consortium Project Manager at EIT Food, Nadia.Papasidero@eitfood.eu.

For EmpoderaClima further information, contact the organization’s media relations: Cândida Schaedler, candidaschaedler@gmail.com