The World Food Forum (WFF) Young Chefs Programme (YCP) 2026–2027 is calling on young chefs aged 18 to 35 to become agents of change in global food systems. This initiative empowers participants with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to promote sustainability, nutrition, and biodiversity through innovative culinary practices.
Applications are open until 16 November 2025 (midnight, CEST), and candidates are required to submit a signed working protocol, an updated CV, a professional headshot, and a two-minute video detailing how they plan to contribute to the programme.
Programme Overview
The WFF Young Chefs Programme aims to inspire culinary professionals to lead conversations around food security, sustainable consumption, and responsible cooking. Each participant will be paired with an experienced mentor from the World Association of Chefs’ Societies network, ensuring a guided and enriching experience.
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Key Pillars of the Programme
1. Capacity Development
Participants will attend online masterclasses by experts from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and partner organizations. Training will focus on food systems thinking, sustainable nutrition, food safety, and gender-responsive practices, helping chefs become leaders in agrifood system transformation.
2. Advocacy
Young chefs will create public awareness campaigns and social media content to educate their communities about sustainable food choices. They’ll also represent the programme at international events, including the WFF flagship conference, to advocate for nutrition and biodiversity.
3. Local Action
Each chef will design and implement a community project addressing local food system challenges. With mentor support, these projects will align with the WFF Youth Assembly’s Global Youth Action Plan (GYAP) and focus on practical, region-specific impact.
Programme Timeline
- Oct–Nov 2025: Call for applications
- December 2025: Interviews
- January 2026: Onboarding
- Jan–June 2026: Capacity development workshops
- June 2026: Recipe launches and community project rollouts
- October 2026: Presentation of projects at the WFF flagship event
- Jan–Feb 2027: New cohort introduction and knowledge exchange
The WFF Young Chefs Programme 2026–2027 offers a transformative opportunity to connect culinary creativity with sustainable development goals. Participants will gain global exposure, mentorship, and the platform to influence a healthier, more resilient food future.
Apply now and become part of the next generation of chefs reshaping global food systems!
