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Powering Food Systems Innovation Challenge Demo Day: Youth-Driven Solutions to Climate Change and Unemployment


 Mandarina Khabetsa, Chief Communication and Advocacy Officer(Left), Karen Chelangat, Chief Innovation Officer, Jacob Ladder Africa(right).

The vibrant energy of young innovators lit up the stage as Jacob Ladder Africa hosted the grand Powering Food Systems Innovation Challenge Demo Day. The event brought together passionate young minds, seasoned mentors, and industry leaders under one roof, united by a common goal: empowering the next generation to create sustainable solutions to two of the most pressing challenges of our time—climate change and unemployment.

The challenge, which sought to inspire youth-led innovations within food systems, marked a turning point for the finalists who made it to the demo day. These budding entrepreneurs had spent months refining their ideas, all aimed at reshaping how food is produced, distributed, and consumed in a climate-resilient and job-creating manner.

From ideas that focused on turning organic waste into biofertilizer to energy-efficient food preservation technologies, the room was abuzz with creative, forward-thinking solutions. Each finalist brought a unique perspective, fueled by lived experiences and a relentless determination to make a difference.

Karen Chelangat, Chief Innovation Officer at Jacob Ladder Africa, spoke passionately about the event’s mission. “Our youth are ready and available to step up with groundbreaking solutions. They have the energy, creativity, and determination to tackle these challenges. All they need is support, and that’s what we are here to provide.”

Her sentiments were echoed by Mandarina Khabetsa, Chief Communication and Advocacy Officer, who emphasized the importance of amplifying youth voices. “The brilliance we’ve seen today proves that young innovators are not just the future; they are the now. They are stepping into the gap with ideas that address the climate crisis while offering meaningful employment opportunities.”

The event wasn’t just about pitching ideas, it was a celebration of possibility. Beyond receiving resources and tools to refine their projects, the finalists stood to gain something even more invaluable: mentorship from industry experts. These mentors, with decades of experience, are committed to guiding the youth through the complexities of entrepreneurship, turning ambitious dreams into tangible realities.

The demo day concluded with the announcement that the most promising projects would move on to an intensive mentorship program. This next phase will connect the finalists with experts across sectors, giving them the tools to scale their solutions and create lasting impact.

The Powering Food Systems Innovation Challenge Demo Day was more than just an event; it was a testament to the power of youth-driven innovation. As the curtains closed, one thing was clear: the future is bright, and it belongs to those who dare to reimagine it.

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