Bangladeshi youth activist and sustainability advocate Ifrat Hossain represented Bangladesh on the global stage at two major international events hosted by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in Rome the World Food Forum (WFF) 2025 Flagship Event and the First International Green Cities Conference. Both events marked a historic moment as FAO celebrated its 80th anniversary, reflecting eight decades of global action for food security, nutrition, and sustainable urban development.

At the World Food Forum 2025, held from 10 to 17 October at FAO Headquarters, youth leaders, ministers, scientists, and policymakers gathered under the theme “Healthy Diets for All and Sustainable Food Systems.” The week-long event featured high-level ministerial meetings, innovation labs, and youth-led assemblies focused on transforming global food systems and accelerating progress toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Throughout the Forum, Ifrat engaged in dialogues on climate resilience, youth leadership, and food systems transformation. Representing Bangladesh as Communication Coordinator at Mission Green Bangladesh and a UPG Sustainability Leader 2025, he showcased Bangladesh’s youth-driven initiatives for environmental sustainability and climate education.

During the event, Ifrat had the honor of meeting Dr. Qu Dongyu, Director-General of FAO, and exchanging ideas on how young leaders can play a stronger role in building resilient food systems. He also met Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Head of the Interim Government of Bangladesh and Nobel Peace Laureate, who encouraged youth to drive innovation for sustainable development.

Ifrat also attended the World Food Day 2025 celebrations and the #Seeds2Foods Exhibition at Parco di Porta Capena, co-organized by FAO and Roma Capitale. The exhibition highlighted creative projects linking food, nature, and culture inspiring visitors to rethink their relationship with what they eat and the planet that sustains them.

Building on that experience, Ifrat later joined the First International Green Cities Conference, also held in Rome. The conference, jointly organized by FAO and UN-Habitat, brought together urban leaders, mayors, and sustainability experts to discuss the future of resilient, low-carbon cities. From transforming urban agrifood systems to creating multifunctional green spaces and unlocking climate finance, the sessions provided innovative roadmaps for sustainable urban living.

Reflecting on his time in Italy, Ifrat shared:

“Representing Bangladesh at FAO Headquarters was a milestone in my journey as a youth activist. Meeting leaders like Dr. Qu Dongyu and Dr. Muhammad Yunus was truly inspiring. These experiences reminded me how powerful the youth voice can be in shaping a sustainable and food-secure future for all.”

Through his active participation in both global events, Ifrat Hossain not only amplified the voice of Bangladeshi youth but also strengthened Bangladesh’s presence in international discussions on sustainability, food security, and climate action. His journey in Rome stands as a testament to how young changemakers from the Global South are leading efforts toward a greener, more resilient world.