For the Donor Platform’s thematic working group on rural youth employment, the next two years are shaping up to be very exciting. New co-chair Leonard Mizzi, representing the European Commission, joins Genna Tesdall, who brings the youth-led perspective of YPARD. With this “intergenerational” leadership and a new work plan for the biennium, the group is shifting its focus from “process” to “purpose”.
Genna Tesdall
Director, Young Professionals for Agricultural Development (YPARD)
Leonard Mizzi
Adviser Food Systems, Directorate-General for International Partnerships, European Commission; Donor Platform Co-Chair
The Donor Platform’s Rural Youth Employment Thematic Working Group is entering a new phase under Co-Chairs Leonard Mizzi (European Commission) and Genna Tesdall (YPARD).
Building on the strong foundations and progress achieved in recent years, the next two years reflect a shift from process to purpose: ensuring that rural youth are not only included, but empowered as partners and leaders in food systems transformation.
The group’s new work plan aims to strengthen youth roles in policymaking, co-develop programmes, and expand access to tools such as digital innovation, climate-smart solutions, and inclusive finance. It encourages donors to recognize not only the challenges, but also the opportunities associated with investing in youth. By sharing practical experiences and success stories, the group continues to build an evidence base to scale approaches that work.
Rural youth are increasingly recognized as drivers of transformation, bringing new energy, adaptability, and innovation to global food systems. By strengthening ecosystems that connect youth with innovative finance, knowledge, and decision-making spaces, the group aims to bring together partners, financial institutions, international agencies, and philanthropic organizations to engage with this dynamic space.
Read the full interview with the co-chairs to explore their vision and priorities in detail.
