Young changemakers from around the world have an opportunity to showcase their learning journey and earn global recognition as applications open for the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Global Youth Contest 2026.
Organised through the FAO eLearning Academy, the international competition invites participants to share a short written story explaining how FAO's online courses have influenced their personal, academic or professional growth.
The top three winners will receive a fully funded trip to Rome, Italy, where they will attend the World Food Forum 2026 from October 12 to 15, 2026.
Contest at a Glance
Particular
Details
Organiser
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
Contest
FAO Global Youth Contest 2026
Eligibility
Open worldwide
Age Limit
18–35 years
Award
Fully funded trip to Rome, Italy
Event
World Food Forum 2026
Application Deadline
July 31, 2026
What Winners Will Receive
The three selected participants will receive:
A fully sponsored trip to Rome, Italy.
Opportunity to attend the World Food Forum 2026.
International recognition from FAO.
Official certificate and acknowledgment.
Global exposure through FAO platforms.
Networking opportunities with international youth leaders, experts and policymakers.
A chance to contribute to discussions on sustainable agrifood systems and global development.
Purpose of the Contest
Through this initiative, FAO aims to highlight the transformative impact of digital learning on young people across the world.
The contest seeks stories that demonstrate:
How FAO e-learning has contributed to personal, academic or professional development.
Practical application of knowledge to address real-world challenges.
Youth leadership in promoting sustainable and inclusive agrifood systems.
Experiences that can inspire other learners worldwide.
The growing role of digital education in advancing sustainable development.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
Be 18 to 35 years of age.
Belong to any country or region worldwide.
Be a registered learner on the FAO eLearning Academy.
Have successfully completed FAO e-learning courses.
Hold certified digital badges issued after course completion.
Demonstrate how the learning experience has enhanced their knowledge, skills or career development.
The contest is open to applicants from all backgrounds, including participants from underrepresented and vulnerable communities.
Why Students and Young Professionals Should Apply
Besides the fully funded international travel opportunity, selected participants will gain valuable international exposure.
Successful applicants may also:
Receive worldwide recognition from FAO.
Be featured on the FAO eLearning Academy website and official social media platforms.
Participate in video interviews highlighting their achievements.
Connect with global experts working in agriculture, food security and sustainable development.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must prepare a short written story explaining how FAO eLearning Academy courses have positively influenced their educational, professional or personal journey.
Applications must be submitted through the official FAO contest platform before the July 31, 2026, deadline while following all submission guidelines prescribed by the organizers.
For complete eligibility details, submission requirements and application instructions, applicants should refer to the official FAO Global Youth Contest webpage before applying.
With international recognition, networking opportunities and a fully funded visit to Italy on offer, the FAO Global Youth Contest 2026 presents a unique platform for young learners to share their stories and become part of the global conversation on sustainable food systems and the future of agriculture.
FAO Global Youth Contest 2026 Opens: Win a Fully Funded Trip to Italy and Attend the World Food Forum
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