Youth Stories
Youth stories
Explore the stories shared by young people Across Africa and Europe about the food systems in their cities and inspiring action—both online and in their communities—on the issues that matter to them.
Sharing diverse voices
AfriFOODlinks ambassadors are taking on urban food system challenges by working directly with their communities. They raise awareness, amplify voices that often go unheard, and lead hands-on city-level activations to make food systems more inclusive, sustainable, and fair.
Their efforts range from organising market tours and running environmental workshops to working closely with informal vendors like women fishmongers and vegetable sellers. These vendors play a vital role in bringing fresh, affordable produce to cities. By shining a light on their contributions and the challenges they face, the ambassadors push for better support and recognition for those facing significant challenges in their daily work in urban food systems.
Through storytelling, they share real-life experiences that highlight how urban food systems affect people’s everyday lives. These personal accounts don’t just inform—they give a glimpse into the mosaic of actors that drive urban food systems. They provide fresh perspectives, foster understanding, and encourage practical, community-driven solutions.
By combining action and advocacy, the project ambassadors are helping to reshape how we think about and manage urban food systems, one step at a time.
Explore the youth ambassador stories
Explore articles
An inspiration in the food system - Bargnbay
Submitted by Womba Mufundi
- Lusaka, Zambia
Lusaka’s rapid growth has increased demand for affordable fresh produce, but busy working schedules make it difficult for many to visit traditional markets in the town centre.
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Recognising this challenge, the small tech start-up Bargnbay has introduced a food delivery app to bridge the gap between market vendors and households. By using digital technology, the platform makes fresh, local produce more accessible while supporting market vendors in reaching a wider customer base.
This innovation is transforming food accessibility in Lusaka, ensuring that even in a fast-paced urban environment, people can still enjoy affordable, fresh produce without having to navigate congested marketplaces.
Cultivating Organic Success in Mbale City
Submitted by Sam Wesamoyo
- Mbale, Uganda
This article highlights the success story of Mr. Juma Wepukhulu, a young urban farmer and founder of the Elgon Integrated Urban Farmers Association (EIUFA) in Mbale city.
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It highlights what Urban farming is about and its relevancy given that land becomes increasingly scarce in cities as they continue to grow due to populations growth that also results into an increment in the demand for food.
Urban farming has gained popularity, especially in emerging and expanding cities, as a way to maximize limited space. It contributes to household food security and can serve as an alternative source of income among relevant purposes.
Seeds of change: How Fattoria Roggero blends farming, conservation, and community
Submitted by Francesca Allemano
- Turin, Italy
Nestled in Rivoli’s scenic moraine hills, Fattoria Roggero champions beekeeping, biodiversity, and sustainability. Bees are the heartbeat of their work, vital for ecosystems and food security, enhancing crop quality while thriving in chemical-free mountain areas. Collaborating with Coldiretti Torino, they ensure a healthy, biodiverse environment through regular environmental checks.
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Education is at the farm’s core. Their teaching garden inspires children and adults to reconnect with nature’s rhythms, embracing patience and respect in contrast to today’s fast-paced world. On-site sales deepen this connection, empowering consumers to make thoughtful, responsible food choices.
Fattoria Roggero’s social mission shines through its work placement programs, supporting individuals with disabilities or unemployment challenges. By seamlessly blending production, conservation, and education, they show how sustainability isn’t just about taste—it’s about ethics, community, and protecting the planet.