30 Years of Innovation
For over 30 years, the Foundation has empowered young leaders to shape sustainable food systems through innovative education programs and hands-on experiences. Inspired by the vision of Dr. Norman E. Borlaug and John Ruan, Sr., the Foundation is cultivating a pipeline of emerging scientists, researchers, humanitarians, farmers and global leaders equipped to solve critical challenges in agriculture, food security and sustainability.
Through a pipeline of transformational experiences, the Foundation’s Youth Programs honor the vision of their founders by cultivating the best young talent to meet the urgent needs of food insecurity and agriculture across the globe. During these programs, young people develop:
- An understanding of global food security
- Personal and professional growth
- An introduction to available educational and career pathways
- A strong voice and a seat at the table
"Since its inception, the Global Youth Institute has been a celebrated and significant component of the World Food Prize and has given our family such joy to see the program evolve. My grandfather, John Ruan, Sr., was incredibly passionate about the Global Youth Institute.
He believed deeply in the power of young people to change the world, and he loved seeing the energy and ideas they brought to solving global challenges. Decades later, the Youth Institute remains at the forefront of the Foundation’s mission and we are proud to provide programming that inspires and empowers the next generation of leaders.” - Dr. Rachel Ruan McLean
Learn More About Our Youth Programs
World Food Prize Youth Institutes Global Youth Institute Borlaug-Ruan International Internship
USDA Wallace-Carver Fellowship Alumni Impact