Deadline: November 16, 2025
The WFF Young Chefs Programme 2026-2027 is now open for applications! This exciting global initiative is designed to empower young culinary professionals to become key agents of change in transforming agrifood systems. The programme offers a unique opportunity for chefs aged 18 to 35 to expand their knowledge, strengthen their leadership capacity, and drive impactful change within their communities and beyond.
About the WFF Young Chefs Programme 2026-2027
The World Food Forum (WFF) Young Chefs Programme 2026-2027 aims to build a global network of motivated and sustainability-driven chefs who will use their culinary expertise to influence food systems positively. The programme combines professional development, advocacy, and community action to nurture a new generation of food leaders.
It is structured around three main pillars:
- Capacity Development
Participants will take part in a series of online masterclasses covering key topics such as food systems thinking, sustainable nutrition, food safety, and gender-responsive nutrition. They will also benefit from personalized mentorship through the World Association of Chefs’ Societies network, which connects them with experienced chefs and food experts worldwide. - Advocacy
The programme emphasizes the importance of storytelling and public engagement. Participants will create advocacy campaigns and social media content to promote sustainable food practices. They will also have the chance to represent the Young Chefs Programme at high-level international events, including the World Food Forum’s flagship annual event. - Local Action
Each participant will design and implement a local community project focused on transforming agrifood systems. These projects will align with the WFF Youth Assembly’s Global Youth Action Plan (GYAP), ensuring that the chefs’ actions contribute to broader global goals for food security and sustainability.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the WFF Young Chefs Programme 2026-2027, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be aged 18 to 35 years by 16 November 2025.
- Be a culinary professional or someone deeply engaged in the food or gastronomy sector.
- Show strong commitment to sustainable gastronomy and food systems transformation.
- Have a reliable internet connection to participate in virtual activities.
- Maintain at least one active social media account for advocacy and communication.
- Possess proficiency in both written and spoken English.
- Be available to dedicate approximately 16 to 20 hours per month to programme activities.
- Not be employed by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) or have immediate family members working there.
Application Requirements
Applicants are required to submit the following materials:
- A signed working protocol outlining commitment and expected contributions.
- An updated CV detailing professional, academic, and volunteer experiences relevant to food or sustainability.
- A professional headshot suitable for official programme use.
- A short video (maximum 2 minutes) explaining how the applicant intends to contribute to the goals of the Young Chefs Programme.
Programme Benefits
The WFF Young Chefs Programme 2026-2027 offers participants the opportunity to:
- Receive mentorship from world-renowned chefs and experts.
- Gain access to professional masterclasses on sustainable food practices.
- Build a global network of like-minded culinary professionals.
- Lead community-based projects that drive tangible change.
- Represent the global youth culinary movement at international food forums and events.
Through this programme, participants not only enhance their culinary and leadership skills but also position themselves as advocates for a sustainable future.
Timeline
- Application Deadline: 16 November 2025
Successful applicants will be notified and invited to join the programme for the 2026–2027 cycle, beginning early in 2026.
How to Apply
Interested and eligible candidates are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline. Ensure that all required materials are prepared and submitted according to the guidelines provided.
👉 Click here to apply for the WFF Young Chefs Programme 2026-2027
👉 Read more about the WFF Young Chefs Programme 2026-2027
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