Young leaders driving agrifood transformation: YALAFAST concludes its first edition with resounding success

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The first cohort of Youth Action Leadership for Agrifood Awareness and Systems Transformation (YALAFAST) wrapped up this week in Rabat, marking a milestone moment for youth engagement in sustainable agrifood systems across the Near East and North Africa (NENA) region.
Launched by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in collaboration with regional and national partners, YALAFAST brought together 54 young leaders from public and private sectors and academia from 20 countries for an intensive four-day experience designed to equip them with the tools, knowledge, and networks to lead the transformation of agrifood systems in their communities.
The event took place from 30 June to 3 July 2025 in Rabat. Through a dynamic agenda of workshops, expert panels, group challenges, field visits, and a regional hackathon, participants tackled pressing issues such as technology, policy, water and energy in food systems, and most importantly, the role that young leaders can play in transforming the agrifood systems.
A platform for inspiration and action
“This initiative reflects FAO’s belief in the power of youth to drive real change in our agrifood systems,” said AbdulHakim Elwaer, FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for the Near East and North Africa (RNE), during the opening ceremony. “YALAFAST is more than a training it is the start of a regional movement.”

Highlights of the week included a tree planting ceremony at Agronomic and Veterinary Institute Hassan II (IAV), attended by participants, Ahmad Mukhtar, Senior Economist from RNE, Dr. Abdelaziz El Hraiki, Director General from IAV, and Dr. David Nabarro, Strategic Director for 4SD Foundation and WHO Special Envoy on COVID-19, symbolizing a commitment to growth, sustainability, and intergenerational knowledge. Participants have also visited local farms and agribusinesses, allowing participants to connect theoretical discussions with practical examples of innovation in action.
Reflecting on the experience, participants described YALAFAST as “eye-opening,” “transformative,” and “a catalyst for lifelong collaboration.” One young leader from United Arab Emirates shared, “I’m grateful for the opportunity and look forward to seeing how this network continues to drive real change in agrifood systems.”
One of the key achievements of the first cohort was on convening a diverse group of stakeholders, creating a dynamic space for cross-sectoral dialogue, networking and collaboration. YALAFAST provided a unique opportunity for participants to not only share experiences and solutions, but also explore potential partnerships and funding avenues to scale up their initiatives.
The Way Forward
FAO and its partners are now working on institutionalizing YALAFAST as a bi-annual regional platform, with plans already underway for the next edition. The YALAFAST cohort 1 alumni network will continue to grow as an active community of young changemakers committed to transforming agrifood systems in the NENA region. RNE will facilitate regular online calls, offering a platform for participants to share updates, discuss new developments, and continue exchanging knowledge and opportunities.
This alumni network will also serve as an incubator for collaboration, peer support, and scaling up of the innovative ideas born during the programme. FAO and partners remain committed to accompanying these young leaders on their journey, fostering a long-term ecosystem where youth voices help shape the future of food and agriculture.