The President's Blog

The President's Blog http://www.worldfoodprize.org/sitevizcms/RSSFeed.cfm?nodeid=95608&audienceID=1 en-us Copyright 2026 The World Food Prize Foundation All Rights Reserved. wfpf@worldfoodprize.org (The World Food Prize Foundation) support@globalreach.com (Global Reach Internet Productions) Sun, 19 Apr 2026 06:13:10 -0500 Sun, 19 Apr 2026 06:13:10 -0500 60 Welcome to the Borlaug Dialogue - Feeding a Fragile World http://www.worldfoodprize.org/index.cfm/95608-1/19399/welcome_to_the_borlaug_dialogue__feeding_a_fragile_world Wed, 12 Oct 2022 13:00:00 +0000 Blog http://www.worldfoodprize.org/index.cfm/95608-1/19399/welcome_to_the_borlaug_dialogue__feeding_a_fragile_world <p>Welcome to the 2022 Borlaug Dialogue, Feeding a Fragile World. We have one week until we kick off three days of inspiring deliberations on the huge challenges ahead and the progress needed to feed our fragile world. </p> <p>We are grateful that many of you will be traveling to Des Moines to convene in person after two years of mostly-virtual programming. Our staff, interns and many volunteers have been working diligently to create an exciting and rewarding experience in our new venues.</p> <p>This year, we focus on the climate-food nexus and the unprecedented challenges we face amidst the pandemic and significant regional conflicts. We will feature expert speakers on so many crucial issues, focusing on the looming global hunger crisis and the scalable solutions needed to sustainably increase the quality, quantity and availability of food for all. </p> <p>On our opening day, Tuesday, we begin early with concurrent breakout sessions, where participants will discuss the African food system, soil health, and the New Cow, among other topics. View the schedule on Accelevents to bookmark your sessions of interest. </p> <p>Following an opening keynote from US Special Envoy Cary Fowler, we welcome the Rwandan Minister of Agriculture, Gérardine Mukeshimana, to share the strategies to build successful partnerships with Manuel Otero, IICA, and Latin American countries. Jyotsna Puri, International Fund for Agriculture Development, joins them to explore dynamic, cooperative models being employed. Rwanda hosted this year’s amazingly successful African Green Revolution Forum (AGRF - newly branded the African Food Systems Summit) in early September, which I had the pleasure of attending. </p> <p>Later on Tuesday, engaging roundtables and chats lead us through a day focused on the Triple Threat of climate, COVID, and conflict, as well as the opportunities of regenerative agriculture. We close with crucial and engaging Side Events hosted in person and virtually.</p> <p>Wednesday begins with USAID Administrator Samantha Power, who will share global strategies and perspectives on food security and international development in her keynote address. Roundtables and chats focus on finance and investment, NASA’s tools for food and agriculture, and the opportunities for increased global cooperation in research, sustainable agriculture, and innovative agriculture technologies. Shameran Abed, CEO of BRAC, offers another keynote address outlining BRAC’s impact over 50 years pursuing the end of poverty. At the close of the day, we celebrate Dr. Mahalingam Govindaraj, our 2022 Borlaug Field Award Recipient, who is recognized for his leadership in the biofortification of pearl millet.</p> <p>On Thursday, two Roundtable discussions proceed, where esteemed speakers address food security and nutrition in the climate era, and the role for a Just Transition. Rodger Voorhies, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Uma Lele, International Association of Agricultural Economists, and Eric Danquah, West Africa Center for Crop Improvement tackle the innovations of international development, and Secretary Thomas Vilsack, US Department of Agriculture, closes the Dialogue with a charge to tackle climate change in the context of an evolving agricultural landscape. </p> <p>Finally, we will award Dr. Cynthia Rosenzweig with the 2022 World Food Prize in a special ceremony on Thursday evening. Getting to know Cynthia more over the past few months has been a true pleasure, and I am thrilled for her to receive this well-deserved recognition. If you aren’t joining in Des Moines, we hope you will watch the Laureate Award Ceremony, which is streamed publicly for all to view on our website.</p> <p>If you haven’t already, register for the Borlaug Dialogue to join these conversations, focus on what is most needed, and develop solutions to global food systems challenges.</p> <p>Again, welcome to the Borlaug Dialogue and see you in a week!</p> The World Food Prize Foundation 2022 White House Conference offers action plan for addressing hunger in the U.S. http://www.worldfoodprize.org/index.cfm/95608-1/19397/2022_white_house_conference_offers_action_plan_for_addressing_hunger_in_the_us Wed, 28 Sep 2022 10:00:00 +0000 Blog http://www.worldfoodprize.org/index.cfm/95608-1/19397/2022_white_house_conference_offers_action_plan_for_addressing_hunger_in_the_us <p>Today, the White House holds a conference on hunger, nutrition, and health. The goal of the conference is to “end hunger and increase healthy eating and physical activity by 2030, so that fewer Americans experience diet-related diseases like diabetes, obesity, and hypertension.” The World Food Prize Foundation is committed to ending hunger by 2030 and supports the efforts by the White House to galvanize partners towards this shared goal. </p> <p>This is the second ever White House conference focused on hunger. The first conference in 1969, served as a catalyst for improving hunger and health in the United States of America. From the conference there were over 1,800 policy recommendations that became enacted, including the creation of dietary guidelines, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (known as WIC), and the National School Lunch Program. We are hopeful that recommendations from this year’s conference will have a similar impact.</p> <p>Leading up to today’s conference, the White House encouraged anti-hunger organizations to engage their communities and host listening sessions to hear how hunger and diet-related diseases have impacted their communities. The World Food Prize Foundation conducted four listening sessions this summer with our partners. We engaged students at the Alabama Youth Institute at Tuskegee University, the Florida Youth Institute at the University of Florida, alumni from our Borlaug Ruan Internship Program and Wallace Carver Fellowship Program, and our Iowa anti-hunger partners. </p> <p>Throughout these sessions, we consistently heard that there were inadequate resources in rural and urban communities to deal with the short-term and long-term impact of hunger. Our stakeholders shared that we need to increase food access in rural and urban communities, to better support farmers,  to expand federal programs like the Child Tax Credit, WIC, and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), to create universal schools meals programs, and to address the significant racial inequities that disproportionality impact Black, Indigenous, and Latinx families. The White House will be using insights from these listening sessions to inform their federal action plan to end hunger by 2030. </p> <p>As we work towards a world without hunger, we are committed to increasing our impact by:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Investing in youth leadership:</strong> Every year, we engage over 10,000 students to empower and educate them to understand opportunities they have to improve food security. We will continue to grow our programs, providing educational and professional experiences on pressing food security and agriculture issues, and ensuring that students from marginalized communities are centered in efforts to end</li> <li><strong>Elevating those awarded by the World Food Prize Foundation: </strong>We recognize and reward individuals making exceptional achievements in addressing food security. We will continue to enhance resources, including the World Food Prize, so that our awardees can have an even greater impact from their work to end hunger. </li> <li><strong>Convening partners and developing solutions: </strong>The World Food Prize Foundation brings people together for dialogue and collaboration. Through the International Borlaug Dialogue, the Iowa Hunger Summit, and other convenings, we bring partners together to identify problems and build the much needed collaborative solutions to tackling hunger issues.</li> </ul> <p>We are incredibly grateful to  all of the students, alumni, and partners who participated in our listening sessions. We are inspired by your commitment and impact. We hope that this year’s conference serves as a catalyst for transformative change that gets us closer to achieving a world without hunger. </p> The World Food Prize Foundation Celebrating Accomplishment and Gaining Momentum http://www.worldfoodprize.org/index.cfm/95608-1/19118/celebrating_accomplishment_and_gaining_momentum Thu, 20 May 2021 19:50:06 +0000 Blog http://www.worldfoodprize.org/index.cfm/95608-1/19118/celebrating_accomplishment_and_gaining_momentum <h3 align="center">2021 World Food Prize Laureate</h3> <div align="center">Last week, I announced the<a href="/documents/filelibrary/images/laureates/2021_thilsted/EMBAROGED_2021_Laureate_Story_3C68129698A74.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> 2021 World Food Prize Laureate</a> - the second person from the Caribbean, the first woman of Asian heritage and the seventh woman to receive the World Food Prize</div> <div align="center"> </div> <div align="center"><a href="/documents/filelibrary/images/laureates/2021_thilsted/EMBAROGED_2021_Laureate_Story_3C68129698A74.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Shakuntala Haraksingh Thilsted!</a></div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">Dr. Thilsted was chosen by our distinguished Laureate Selection Committee for her groundbreaking research, critical insights and landmark innovations in developing holistic, nutrition-sensitive approaches to aquaculture and food systems. She looked beyond increasing food production to transforming all aspects of aquatic food systems to make them more resilient and sustainable and to positively impact nutrition, the environment, biodiversity, women, children, vulnerable communities and the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and small business owners. She has worked for decades to feed people, and more importantly, to nourish them.</div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">Dr. Thilsted is an inspiration to me and so many, including the numerous students and young professionals she has mentored. With her team, she extends the impact of fish and other aquatic foods to nourishing nations, enhancing environments, empowering women and boosting incomes to support achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. In a year of work to advance the Decade of Action towards the SDGs, it is imperative that women leaders in food security and nutrition be elevated, their work recognized and scaled.</div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">WE ARE PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE we will welcome Dr. Thilsted to Des Moines, Iowa, in October for our annual events. She will formally receive the World Food Prize in an in-person award ceremony broadcast around the world for all to enjoy, and she will share her wisdom with participants of the Borlaug Dialogue and Global Youth Institute. We look forward to formally welcoming the 51st World Food Prize Laureate to our stage.</div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="center"><a href="/documents/filelibrary/images/laureates/2021_thilsted/EMBAROGED_2021_Laureate_Story_3C68129698A74.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Read Dr. Thilsted's Story Here!</a></div> <div align="center"> </div> <div align="center"> <h3 align="center">2021 WFPF October Events</h3> <div align="justify">The <a href="http://www.worldfoodprize.org/BorlaugDialogue" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">2021 Norman E. Borlaug International Symposium</a> will be conducted October 20 - 22, 2021, with the theme <a href="http://www.worldfoodprize.org/BorlaugDialogue" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gaining Momentum: Food Systems Transformation in the Decade of Action</a>.  </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">This year, given the need for continued pandemic precautions, we will present our annual October Events in a hybrid format,with limited, in-person engagement and the majority of the programming offered virtually. The Global Youth Institute will also be conducted in a hybrid format with a small cohort of educators joining for our innovative <a href="http://www.worldfoodprize.org/globalguides" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Global Guides</a> program and students participating virtually to ensure equitable and safe access for all delegates. We will build on the work and global activities proceeding since last year. </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">The complex, interdisciplinary nature of food systems requires achievements and actions that address numerous vulnerabilities simultaneously. The years 2020-21 have brought challenges and opportunities for working towards the <a href="https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/decade-of-action/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Decade of Action</a> for the <a href="https://sdgs.un.org/goals" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">UN Sustainable Development Goals</a>. </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">We must build forward better from the conventional focus on increased agricultural productivity (e.g., the Green Revolution), toward achieving a safe, affordable, sustainable, equitable and nourishing food system. Any strides made in this Decade of Action will have to address the disproportionate impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic. The resonating effects on human health and food systems are resetting potential implementation of solutions.</div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">The 2021 Borlaug Dialogue will spotlight several focal areas critical to food systems transformation, in addition to other key topics:</div> <ul> <li style="text-align: left;">Research & Innovation: Scientific advancements and strong evidence-based innovation such as CRISPR, climate-smart technologies and digital applications are essential for effective food systems transformation. What are the latest scientific advancements and how are they being effectively deployed across diverse regions, countries and environments?<br />  </li> <li style="text-align: left;">Gender Equity & Equitable Livelihoods: Actions that reverse gender inequities and advance equitable livelihoods must deliver comprehensive, action-oriented results. Focus must be directed towards land tenure, markets and finance, innovation and digital technologies, and diversified leadership opportunities at all levels. How will key actions support food systems improvements and transformation of marginalized communities, especially for women and children?<br />  </li> <li style="text-align: left;">Nutrition-Sensitive Food Systems: Nutrition must be prioritized throughout the food supply chain to achieve affordable healthy diets and dietary patterns. All sectors, especially private sector partners, have a critical role in increasing production of nutritious products for women and children in the first 1,000 days. Diverse protein sources such as aquatic foods, insects, soy and animal agriculture all have a role to play, but what is the right balance to meet nutrient requirements and reduce environmental impact?</li> </ul> <div align="center"><strong> Solutions must be innovative, commitments must be bold and collective action must be systematic. </strong></div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">This year, we are excited to announce Interactive Partner Workshops, as part of the Borlaug Dialogue. Workshops will be featured as part of the plenary agenda of the Dialogue, where Partners offer experiential learning opportunities that define key issues, explore problems, and share new strategies, tools and technologies in food systems. </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">As always, we will continue to feature Partner Side Events that provide a space for organizations and initiatives to coordinate and execute their own unique event in conjunction with the Dialogue. We look forward to opening a new application process for workshops and side events in the coming weeks.</div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="center"><strong>WATCH for more information soon about the Dialogue and the launch of registration for October events!</strong></div> <div align="center"> </div> <div style="text-align: left;"> <h3 align="center">Youth Institutes, Youth Voices & the UN Food Systems Summit</h3> <div align="justify">Now, more than ever, all voices, especially the next generation of leaders, are contributing to dialogue, policy development and actionable solutions. As we come together as a global community to consider the most pressing priorities and action steps necessary, the values and insights of youth offer key guidance for healthy, resilient and sustainable food systems for all. </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">We are proud to have partnered with the UN Food Systems Summit to convene our 2021 World Food Prize Foundation Youth Institutes as FSS Independent Dialogues. Thousands of youth leaders around the world are contributing their innovative ideas, perspectives, research and recommendations to the upcoming Summit, including our own Youth Institute Delegates. </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">This year also marked the 10th anniversary of the Iowa Youth Institute (IYI), our flagship program for elevating the innovative ideas of young leaders in Iowa. This model was adapted and expanded across 25 U.S. states and Honduras, the Netherlands and Sweden, and now provides students life-changing opportunities to connect with global leaders and explore hunger-fighting career paths in science, technology and agricultural innovation. </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">To celebrate this special occasion, Iowa State University (ISU) and the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) strengthened their commitment to young leaders and doubled the scholarship amount for each student who attends ISU CALS and was a participant of the IYI - now awarding $1,000 for each year of IYI participation! Additionally, ISU CALS is now offering a $6,000 scholarship for all students from outside Iowa selected to attend the World Food Prize Foundation Global Youth Institute! This incredible investment by ISU President Wendy Wintersteen and ISU CALS Dean Dan Robison offers great opportunities to young leaders for decades to come.</div> </div> </div> The World Food Prize Foundation Mobilizing 4 Action http://www.worldfoodprize.org/index.cfm/95608-1/19097/mobilizing_4_action Mon, 08 Mar 2021 14:52:40 +0000 Blog http://www.worldfoodprize.org/index.cfm/95608-1/19097/mobilizing_4_action <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-8db007e6-7fff-47bb-c505-bdbe06c1ebdb">Becoming President of the World Food Prize Foundation was a dream come true for me, a chance to advance the legacy of </span><strong>Dr. Norman E. Borlaug,</strong> inspiring critical action to end hunger around the globe. While 2020 brought many unanticipated challenges for us all, we at the Foundation also learned more about our own resilience and dedication than I could have ever dreamed. We conducted our first-ever virtual <strong>Digital Dialogues,</strong> virtual award ceremonies for both the 2020 <strong>Laureate</strong> and <strong>Borlaug Field Award </strong>recipients and brought together over 10,000 students virtually in youth institutes throughout the Spring. We developed innovative online programming and networking opportunities through the <strong>Global Youth Institute</strong> and the <strong>International Borlaug Dialogue.</strong> 2021 offers everyone the opportunity to build on 2020 successes and learnings, and continue to innovate.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-8db007e6-7fff-47bb-c505-bdbe06c1ebdb">On February 23, 2021, an Open Letter was jointly penned by 24 World Food Prize Laureates calling on the Biden-Harris Administration to make alleviating hunger, poverty, and malnutrition around the globe a top priority for the United States. The</span><a href="http://www.worldfoodprize.org/LaureatesLetter2021"> <em><strong>World Food Prize Laureates Open Letter: U.S. Leadership Needed to Help End World Hunger</strong></em></a><em><strong> </strong></em>highlights four areas where U.S. action is needed:</p> <ol style="list-style-type:decimal;"> <li aria-level="1" dir="ltr"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-8db007e6-7fff-47bb-c505-bdbe06c1ebdb">Re-establish American global leadership to end hunger,</span></p> </li> <li aria-level="1" dir="ltr"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-8db007e6-7fff-47bb-c505-bdbe06c1ebdb">Play a leadership role in the upcoming UN Food Systems Summit and other global initiatives,</span></p> </li> <li aria-level="1" dir="ltr"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-8db007e6-7fff-47bb-c505-bdbe06c1ebdb">Refresh U.S. evidence-based policy and investment to achieve the goal of ending hunger, and </span></p> </li> <li aria-level="1" dir="ltr"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-8db007e6-7fff-47bb-c505-bdbe06c1ebdb">Expand the highly successful USAID Feed the Future Initiative and Innovation Labs to reach more countries.</span></p> </li> </ol> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-8db007e6-7fff-47bb-c505-bdbe06c1ebdb">As the Laureates spoke out, our partners worldwide posted and reflected on the importance of leveraging funding, alliance and leadership to transform food systems. Over 250 media outlets in the US and around the world carried the message, including the Washington Post, U.S. News and World Report, and ABC News - </span><strong><a href="https://bit.ly/3ejr1fN">READ HERE</a>.</strong> Now, we continue to amplify this message for International Women’s Day and through our first Digital Dialogue of the year. Join the conversation on social media with <strong>#WFPLaureates4Action</strong>. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong><span id="docs-internal-guid-8db007e6-7fff-47bb-c505-bdbe06c1ebdb">DIGITAL DIALOGUE | MARCH 25, 2021 | 8 a.m. CDT</span></strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-8db007e6-7fff-47bb-c505-bdbe06c1ebdb">Importantly, we will feature discussion among several Laureates on March 25, 2021. Join us for this year’s first Digital Dialogue regarding the Open Letter and the many needed actions to create even more momentum together. </span><strong><a href="http://www.worldfoodprize.org/Register">Register now!</a> </strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong><span id="docs-internal-guid-8db007e6-7fff-47bb-c505-bdbe06c1ebdb">INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY</span></strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-8db007e6-7fff-47bb-c505-bdbe06c1ebdb">On this, International Women's Day, we begin a special blog series featuring key women in leadership, research and science roles in the food and agriculture system. They will be addressing the integral role women will play in transforming food systems and achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Over the next couple of weeks, we look forward to elevating women </span>who work hard every day to transform food systems. Follow the conversations at <a href="http://www.WorldFoodPrize.org/BorlaugBlog"><strong>www.WorldFoodPrize.org/BorlaugBlog!</strong></a></p> <div> </div> The World Food Prize Foundation Right Action | Key Messages | Plans for 2020 http://www.worldfoodprize.org/index.cfm/95608-1/18972/right_action__key_messages__plans_for_2020 Fri, 19 Jun 2020 15:06:34 +0000 Blog http://www.worldfoodprize.org/index.cfm/95608-1/18972/right_action__key_messages__plans_for_2020 <p><strong>Defining Right Action: Locally and Globally</strong><br /> Over the last few months, the World Food Prize Foundation (WFPF) is evolving our programs and practices in light of COVID-19. We are working to develop new directions for all of our activities through extensive research and consultation with many partners. </p> <p>Now, on the special day of recognition, Juneteenth and following so many recent examples and centuries of racial violence against the Black community, we face a call to action against racial injustice and police brutality in all forms, locally and globally. </p> <p>Dr. Norman Borlaug took a stand for the under-resourced, impoverished and hungry people of the world. Norm worked to leverage resources, technology and innovation to benefit the most vulnerable. With the highest rates of oppression, inequality and poverty among Black communities due to systemic racism in this country, Norm’s life inspires us to take up the charge for reforms in the U.S. and around the world. We know that systemic racism perpetuates the significant inequities in our food system. </p> <p>We are now embarking on a deep examination of our own performance, re-evaluating in every direction - diversity in our staff, our programs, our partners, our awards process and our audiences. We are working as a team to develop internal alignment to reflect external, right action in support of the voices of Black people, Indigenous people and People of Color. </p> <p>We are fully examining our involvement with institutions that uphold inequitable and racist systems as they exist today. We remain committed to building a diverse generation of agriculture and food security professionals in all sectors, public, private, academic and service. We will follow and amplify the voices and leadership of the underrepresented as we proceed to do more. </p> <p>Now is the time for us to identify our own right actions. In the words of one of our staff members, “the work is not ending, it is only beginning. Speak up. Show up. Take action.” That is our commitment at this monumental, defining moment for humanity in 2020.</p> <p><strong>Key Messages from Our Experts</strong><br /> Last week, we hosted a virtual 2020 Laureate Announcement. Dr. Rattan Lal, Distinguished Professor of Soil Science at The Ohio State University, was named as the 2020 World Food Prize Laureate. Almost 1,000 people registered from around the world to celebrate Dr. Lal and hear from him directly in the Digital Dialogue that followed. You can watch the two recordings of the events <a href="/en/events/laureate_announcement/watch_the_laureate_announcement/">here</a>.</p> <p>Already, we knew the global food security community was focused on the resilience of food systems. The widespread impacts of COVID-19 magnify the urgency of the work needed to create long-term, healthier food systems. </p> <p>In the <a href="/en/borlaug_dialogue/digital_dialogue/may_14__improvements_for_resilient_food_systems/">Digital Dialogue #2</a>, our experts looked to the medium-to longer-term needs for reshaping the food system, especially as espoused in numerous global calls to action and open letters in circulation. Key takeaways from their insightful remarks appear below.</p> <ul style="list-style-type:disc;"> <li dir="ltr"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-52e19e54-7fff-e7d5-1a13-456ffee42c1f">Structural Vulnerabilities </span></p> <ul style="list-style-type:circle;"> <li> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-52e19e54-7fff-e7d5-1a13-456ffee42c1f">Countries that rely on imports of goods like wheat are at risk because countries exporting those goods may stockpile during the crisis. </span></p> <ul> <li> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-52e19e54-7fff-e7d5-1a13-456ffee42c1f">“We need to </span>revisit, revive and reboot our systems.” - Purvi Mehta - Head - Agriculture Development, Asia, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation; World Food Prize Council of Advisors</p> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-52e19e54-7fff-e7d5-1a13-456ffee42c1f">Global efforts are focused on short-term responses to the crises, but we must be thinking about long-term impacts. We cannot return to a vulnerable food system we no longer accept.</span></p> <ul> <li> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-52e19e54-7fff-e7d5-1a13-456ffee42c1f">“If there is one thing that the COVID crisis has demonstrated, it is just </span>how fragile our systems are, but also how in each of our countries, we have extremely weak people among us who have been impacted the most.” - Agnes Kalibata - President, AGRA; Special Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for the 2021 Food Systems Summit</p> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> <li dir="ltr"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-52e19e54-7fff-e7d5-1a13-456ffee42c1f">Farmers’ Challenges</span></p> <ul style="list-style-type:circle;"> <li> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-52e19e54-7fff-e7d5-1a13-456ffee42c1f">Labor-intensive industries have been hardest-hit by the COVID-19 crisis; farming and other food production services are heavily dependent on labor.</span></p> </li> <li> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-52e19e54-7fff-e7d5-1a13-456ffee42c1f">Future policy should reflect the many roles of farmers and incentivize them beyond food production. </span></p> </li> <li> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-52e19e54-7fff-e7d5-1a13-456ffee42c1f">In disruption, food prices go up and benefit farmers, but negatively impact urban consumers. </span></p> </li> <li> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-52e19e54-7fff-e7d5-1a13-456ffee42c1f">Ensuring that farmers have access to knowledge, capital and other resources is essential in building resilience. </span></p> <ul style="list-style-type:square;"> <li> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-52e19e54-7fff-e7d5-1a13-456ffee42c1f">“The answer to getting information to farmers is the </span>national agriculture research and the extension system. It cannot be a repetition of the old system that existed, we now have new technology.” - Ismail Serageldin - Emeritus Librarian of Alexandria; World Food Prize Council of Advisors</p> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> <li dir="ltr"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-52e19e54-7fff-e7d5-1a13-456ffee42c1f">Investment, Innovation + Capacity Building </span></p> <ul style="list-style-type:circle;"> <li> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-52e19e54-7fff-e7d5-1a13-456ffee42c1f">Innovation is not always about big goals and projects; often it is applying known solutions to communities in need and “doing more with less.” </span></p> </li> <li> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-52e19e54-7fff-e7d5-1a13-456ffee42c1f">High risk and long-term research efforts should see increased investments at this time to meet medium- to longer-term development goals. </span></p> <ul> <li style="list-style-type:square;"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-52e19e54-7fff-e7d5-1a13-456ffee42c1f">“The only way to get out of this is not by doing more of the same. We need to </span>innovate ourselves out of this crisis. And innovation indeed really also means getting new food systems in place.” - Louise Fresco - President, Wageningen University and Research; World Food Prize Council of Advisors</p> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> <li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type:disc;"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-52e19e54-7fff-e7d5-1a13-456ffee42c1f">Nutrition </span></p> <ul style="list-style-type:circle;"> <li> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-52e19e54-7fff-e7d5-1a13-456ffee42c1f">The most vulnerable, especially pregnant women and children, must have proper nourishment. </span></p> </li> <li> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-52e19e54-7fff-e7d5-1a13-456ffee42c1f">Many systems, such as school lunch systems, have been halted due to COVID-19, depriving children all over the world from, potentially, their only nutrition source.</span></p> <ul> <li> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span id="docs-internal-guid-52e19e54-7fff-e7d5-1a13-456ffee42c1f">“If we could just </span>make malnutrition contagious, something would happen! And that says a lot about government response.” - Per Pinstrup Andersen - Professor Emeritus, Cornell University; 2001 World Food Prize Laureate</p> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr"><strong><span id="docs-internal-guid-7004c74b-7fff-1f3a-3b30-e590778446c7">Plans for the Remainder of 2020</span></strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-7004c74b-7fff-1f3a-3b30-e590778446c7">Exploration of and action on these issues will continue for the 2020 Borlaug Dialogue. WFPF will provide a platform to further global action through cross-sectoral collaboration. </span>The World Food Prize events in the week of October 12 will take place in a new, virtual format. We will take the opportunity to widen our scope and offer more interaction through breakout sessions and side events, a new plenary format that features increased accessibility for a broader audience. We will also offer a special Laureate Award Ceremony to fully honor and celebrate Dr. Lal. </p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-7004c74b-7fff-1f3a-3b30-e590778446c7">We are looking forward to offering engaging and dynamic programs this year. Stay tuned for more information on our plans by the end of the month. Until then, </span>continue to Save the Dates - October 12-16!</p> <div> </div> The World Food Prize Foundation New Presidency in the Time of COVID-19: World Food Prize Foundation Response http://www.worldfoodprize.org/index.cfm/95608-1/18954/new_presidency_in_the_time_of_covid19_world_food_prize_foundation_response Tue, 07 Apr 2020 18:23:44 +0000 Blog http://www.worldfoodprize.org/index.cfm/95608-1/18954/new_presidency_in_the_time_of_covid19_world_food_prize_foundation_response <p>Turns out that January 6 was an auspicious day to begin a new job. Taking on leadership of the Foundation was going to be challenging regardless, but doing so at the onset of a global pandemic? Unimaginable! Fortunately, the capable staff and prior work of WFPF created a platform that can respond and deliver. Already, we have offered multiple on-line WFPF Youth Institutes, with our partners at Wageningen University and North Carolina State University. The WFPF Team is working at home, as are most, striving to stay connected and offer support to our partners in these challenging times.</p> <p>Thanks to the almost 500 people across the globe who answered our 2020 Partnership Survey. And, we greatly appreciate the advice and guidance of our esteemed Board of Directors and Council of Advisors in a recent video teleconference.</p> <p><strong>ANNOUNCEMENTS</strong></p> <p>Today, the World Food Prize Foundation is pleased to offer a number of announcements about 2020:</p> <ol> <li><strong>2020 World Food Prize Laureate Announcement Ceremony</strong> - Even in this time of global challenges, WFPF will proceed with the annual announcement of another esteemed Laureate, our 50th Laureate. This year's announcement will be offered virtually during the usual period of late spring/early summer. <em>We look forward to recognizing the accomplishments of another exceptional individual working to increase the quality, quantity and availability of food for all!</em><br />  </li> <li><strong>WFPF Digital Dialogue Series </strong>- In this time of virtual learning, WFPF announces a series of on-line explorations and discussions with past Laureates and key experts. Over the next 3 months, beginning the week of April 13, we will conduct a number of dialogue sessions, the initial one addressing pressing challenges to resilience in the food system in the time of COVID-19. Over the series, we will address the components of a resilient global food system, along with the current and long-term vulnerabilities, engaging global leaders, youth leaders and other experts. Watch for specific invitations to register for the series.<br />  </li> <li><strong>Iowa and Other State/National Youth Institutes On-line</strong> - All of our planned Institutes, more than twenty around the nation and abroad, are being successfully transitioned online working with our partners. We plan to continue to develop the skills, knowledge and connections of a pipeline of young people interested in addressing global challenges into the future. The schedule of events can be found <a href="/index.cfm?nodeID=95736&audienceID=1" target="_blank">HERE</a>, in case you might wish to serve as an expert or recommend a budding Hunger Fighter to participate in their area.<br />  </li> <li><strong>2020 World Food Prize Foundation Annual Week of Events</strong> - Whether in-person or online, the World Food Prize Foundation will conduct the annual International Borlaug Dialogue and the Laureate Award Ceremony. This year we will honor our 50th Laureate and celebrate the 50th anniversary of Norm Borlaug receiving the Nobel Peace Prize! Again, impressive youth and young professionals from around the world will participate in the Global Youth Institute. HOLD these dates on your calendar: October 14 - 16, 2020 for the International Borlaug Dialogue, and Monday, October 12 for the Iowa Hunger Summit.</li> </ol> <p><em><strong>Coronavirus willing, we will host an in-person global gathering full of innovations and in-depth discussions in different venues in Des Moines, IA. If not, we will continue our progression of discussions and offer productive engagement on critical topics to address resilience and the vulnerabilities of the global food system. </strong></em></p> <p><strong>PARTNER SURVEY: HIGHLIGHTS OF RESPONSES</strong></p> <div align="justify">In February, we received diverse and meaningful feedback from our Partner Survey. Energized by the wide variety of suggestions, we appreciated the honest feedback from our partners. A clear strength of WFPF is its ability to bring diverse stakeholders to the table. Whether through our Dialogue, youth programs, the Iowa Hunger Summit, or our Hall of Laureates museum and event venue, we are uniquely situated to bring together all sectors on the pressing issues facing global food and agriculture. </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"><strong>TOP TWELVE:</strong> Stakeholders consistently recommend that we <em><strong>expand our impact</strong></em> and modernize our programming. Many respondents urged conducting <em><strong>more events</strong></em> throughout the year, better promoting the <strong><em>work of our Laureates</em></strong>, increasing the capacity for <em><strong>youth participation</strong></em>, and giving more voice to <strong><em>marginalized groups</em></strong> such as smallholder farmers. Insightful suggestions regarding the content of our events offer exciting ideas for the future. Connecting the Borlaug Dialogue to the <em><strong>Laureate’s expertise</strong></em> was often mentioned, along with the need to directly address the <strong><em>sustainability</em></strong> of the global food system. Many responses addressed the need for a <strong><em>new meeting venue</em></strong> for the Borlaug Dialogue. Respondents seek more information about youth programs and the <strong><em>pipeline of developing youth</em></strong> in the Global Youth Institute and other programs. </div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">The <strong><em>Laureate Award Ceremony</em></strong> received a myriad of suggestions, including to reduce the duration and extent of the ceremony, move away from a dinner and focus more on the Laureate. Finally, our partners identified a major opportunity for growth in <strong><em>branding and communication</em></strong> efforts. Partners recommend more on-line presence and focus on the work of our Laureate following the award and throughout the <strong><em>Laureate’s ongoing career.</em></strong></div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">Thanks again to so many of you for responding. We will address many of your suggestions in our plans this year. <strong>Please watch for more information, and sign-up <a href="/" target="_blank">here</a> (in the footer of the site) to receive regular newsletters/updates. </strong></div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify">With best wishes to everyone as we strive as a community for a global flat curve!</div> <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="right">-Barbara (and everyone at the World Food Prize Foundation)</div> The World Food Prize Foundation 2019 Borlaug Dialogue Report http://www.worldfoodprize.org/index.cfm/95608-1/18944/2019_borlaug_dialogue_report Mon, 24 Feb 2020 20:19:12 +0000 Blog http://www.worldfoodprize.org/index.cfm/95608-1/18944/2019_borlaug_dialogue_report <p>Every year, diverse interests from around the world converge on Des Moines, Iowa in October for the Borlaug Dialogue International Symposium. In 2019, the World Food Prize Foundation (WFPF) welcomed so many to consider broad-ranging topics centered on Pax Agricultura: Peace through Agriculture. While video recordings of the panels and transcripts of the presentations are compiled every year and are now available <a href="/en/borlaug_dialogue/previous_years/2019_borlaug_dialogue/2019_borlaug_dialogue_agenda/">HERE</a>, we wanted to reflect on key topics discussed, initiatives and activities announced, and highlights from the meeting. </p> <p>The staff of WFPF welcome the tremendous response received from over 500 in our community in the 2020 Partner Survey, as we formulate plans for the 2020 Borlaug Dialogue International Symposium to be held 14 – 16 October. We look forward to the ongoing engagement with our partners, and are formulating innovations for an exciting, relevant, and even more impactful dialogue. <strong>SAVE THE DATE!</strong></p> <p>Plan to attend the Iowa Hunger Summit on Monday, 12 October for a remarkable day examining local hunger and food security needs and opportunities.</p> <p><em>-Barbara Stinson</em></p> <p><a href="/documents/filelibrary/2019_borlaug_dialogue_transcripts/World_Food_Prize_Foundation_Borlaug_BB07BDDCE9D9C.pdf"><img alt="" src="/documents/filelibrary/2019_borlaug_dialogue_transcripts/2019_Wrap_Up_Report_18120580CF2DA.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 776px;" /></a></p> <p> </p> The World Food Prize Foundation Welcome to the Next Era of the World Food Prize Foundation http://www.worldfoodprize.org/index.cfm/95608-1/18931/welcome_to_the_next_era_of_the_world_food_prize_foundation Tue, 14 Jan 2020 14:53:38 +0000 Blog http://www.worldfoodprize.org/index.cfm/95608-1/18931/welcome_to_the_next_era_of_the_world_food_prize_foundation <p>Thank you for your greetings over the past several weeks. I have enjoyed an incredible first week at the World Food Prize Foundation and am grateful for the welcome received here in Iowa and around the world. I am truly honored to be assuming the role as president, and I applaud the contributions and successes of the Foundation over the past many years. My first order of business is to maintain the momentum and extend the impact of WFPF. </p> <p>In December, I spent several weeks on the road to ensure a prompt start to my tenure. During that time, I met with some of our donors, partners and advisors. In meetings with the stellar WFPF staff, I learned more about program priorities and opportunities to evolve the work of the Foundation. Gaining insight and feedback from the WFPF community is critically important to me as we start our journey to develop the next era of the organization. </p> <p>In the weeks ahead, I will learn more about our programs and operations, and will keep gathering feedback. I plan to visit with many of our valued partners around the world and here in Iowa to hear the ideas about how the World Food Prize Foundation can deliver an even greater impact in the future. I will use your input, and our own strategic priorities, to shape a comprehensive strategic plan for the Foundation.  </p> <p>The Foundation is committed to engaging the global leadership and today’s youth in achieving food security, while also supporting and recognizing innovators in agriculture and the food system. We will continue to encourage youth around the world to enter and stay in agriculture in order to feed the world. I believe that key stakeholders must address the tough issues and work collaboratively, if we are going to achieve global food security while protecting our most valuable resources. My tenure will be marked by several principles I hold dear:</p> <ul> <li>Engage diverse points of view and allow for open, constructive debate on the critical issues;</li> <li>Identify shared priorities and opportunities for collaboration to achieve faster results; and</li> <li>Communicate results, solicit feedback and be open to changes and adjustments along the way.</li> </ul> <p>Many have asked me why I took this job. My answer is simple: This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to extend Dr. Norman E. Borlaug’s mission by honoring the work of those feeding the world and a unique opportunity to support youth and young professionals in the mission of eliminating global hunger. I am committed to examining the most pressing agriculture and food systems challenges, highlighting important progress every year and bringing diverse stakeholders together to drive greater impact. </p> <p>Let me close by thanking Ambassador Kenneth Quinn for his dedication and commitment to building the World Food Prize Foundation to be the organization it is today. I appreciate his gracious support of me during the past several months during our leadership transition. </p> <p>I look forward to working with the WFPF community to map the Foundation’s next era that hopefully will contribute even more to Dr. Borlaug’s mission of ending world hunger on the face of the Earth.</p> The World Food Prize Foundation