ITHACA, N.Y. — From March 31 to April 1, Cornell University welcomes New York high schoolers to taste Ithaca’s savory flavors, tour cutting edge farm and research labs, network with renowned agricultural professionals, and most importantly, share their own solutions to hunger and food insecurity. The New York Youth Institute, coordinated by the World Food Prize Foundation, exists to encourage youth to advocate against hunger and pursue careers in agriculture.

To participate in the New York Youth Institute, high schoolers must select a specific country and write a paper addressing specific food security challenges there. Following their meticulous research and writing, a teacher edits their work and gives feedback before their submission. Weeks later, students go to Cornell present their research to experts, explore the current work in agriculture, and become inspired to grow in knowledge and passion for food security.

The impact of the World Food Prize on youth does not end in New York; the work has only begun! Following this powerful and inspiring experience, New York selects delegates to represent the state at the world’s largest hunger symposium in Des Moines, Iowa in October. The World Food Prize Global Youth Institute and Borlaug Dialogue unites 400 youth delegates from across the globe to share their food security solutions to political figures, CEOs, members of the UN, farmers, and others concerned with agriculture’s future. In addition, youth receive the keys to make an even greater difference in the fight for food security and are granted exclusive access to apply for prestigious paid internships with the USDA and abroad.

Any high schooler interested in agriculture, food security, or simply making a positive and meaningful difference is strongly encouraged to participate in this highly influential event. This program is not solely for those of an agricultural background, but exists to introduce youth to the diversity and opportunities inherent in agriculture. For more information, please visit worldfoodprize.org/newyork or email Francine Jasper at fj10@cornell.edu.

—Francine Barchett
Cornell University

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