World Food Prize Foundation
World Food Prize Foundation Youth Programs
OUR MISSION
To elevate innovations and inspire action to sustainably increase the quality, quantity, and availability of food for all
WORLD FOOD PRIZE
30 Years of Innovation in Food Security Education
For over 30 years, the Foundation has empowered young leaders to shape sustainable food systems through innovative education programs and hands-on experiences. Inspired by the vision of Dr. Norman E. Borlaug and John Ruan, Sr., the Foundation is cultivating a pipeline of emerging scientists, researchers, humanitarians, farmers and global leaders equipped to solve critical challenges in agriculture, food security and sustainability.
Through a pipeline of transformational experiences, the Foundation’s Youth Programs honor the vision of their founders by cultivating the best young talent to meet the urgent needs of food insecurity and agriculture across the globe. During these programs, young people develop:
- An understanding of global food security
- Personal and professional growth
- An introduction to available educational and career pathways
- A strong voice and a seat at the table
- A global perspective
Testimonial
“Since its inception, the Global Youth Institute has been a celebrated and significant component of the World Food Prize and has given our family such joy to see the program evolve. My grandfather, John Ruan, Sr., was incredibly passionate about the Global Youth Institute.
He believed deeply in the power of young people to change the world, and he loved seeing the energy and ideas they brought to solving global challenges. Decades later, the Youth Institute remains at the forefront of the Foundation’s mission and we are proud to provide programming that inspires and empowers the next generation of leaders.”
Dr. Rachel Ruan McLean
Learn More About Our Youth Programs
World Food Prize Youth Institutes
The World Food Prize Youth Institutes empower students to explore real-world challenges in global food systems, agriculture, sustainability and nutrition through research, discussion and leadership development. These educational programs encourage students to think critically about global food security while connecting with experts and peers who share a passion for improving food systems.Youth Institutes help prepare the next generation of leaders dedicated to advancing agricultural innovation and creating a more food-secure world.
Global Youth Institute
The Global Youth Institute is a three-day academic conference focused on global food security, held each October in Des Moines, Iowa. Through research, discussion and collaboration, participants gain a deeper understanding of the issues impacting food systems and the innovative ideas shaping the future of agriculture.
Borlaug-Ruan International Internship
The Borlaug-Ruan International Internship provides students with life-changing opportunities to gain professional experience in global food security, agriculture, nutrition and sustainable development. Through immersive international experiences, participants work alongside world-renowned scientists and experts addressing real-world food system challenges.
Alumni Advancing Global Food Security & Innovation
World Food Prize Foundation Youth Programs alumni are making a lasting impact in global food security, agriculture and sustainability around the world. From scientific research and policy leadership to community engagement and agricultural innovation, alumni continue to apply their experiences to create meaningful change in food systems.
Explore the impact of the Foundation’s Youth Programs and how former participants are advancing Dr. Norman Borlaug’s vision and shaping the future of agrifood systems.
GLOBAL YOUTH INSTITUTE
Alumni Ambassadors
Through outreach, engagement and network development, Alumni Ambassadors help amplify the impact of the Foundation’s Youth Programs and strengthen the global network of alumni.