From Classrooms to the Global Stage: SA Youth Take On World Hunger

Two South African Grade 10 learners are stepping onto the international stage to tackle one of humanity’s biggest challenges: ending world hunger.

Poloko Rapport and Majoleeh Muller have made history as the first-ever South African delegates selected to represent the country at the World Food Prize Foundation’s Global Youth Institute in Des Moines, Iowa. Joining nearly 200 high school researchers from across the world, these two young leaders are sharing their bold ideas with global decision-makers, scientists, and policy experts.

Shining a Light on Youth Innovation

The journey began in June 2026 at the inaugural South Africa Youth Institute, hosted by Stellenbosch University’s Faculty of AgriSciences in partnership with the World Food Prize Foundation. Out of 39 talented participants from six provinces, Poloko and Majoleeh stood out for their exceptional research and vision.

For both learners, this marks their first trip to the United States—an unforgettable milestone driven by their passion for change.

Poloko Rapport (Maquassi Hills English Secondary School, North West) focused her Global Challenge paper on addressing human health and nutrition in Somalia.

“Being selected sends a strong message: people like me can create real change,” says Poloko. “I’m excited to meet fellow young people who are just as passionate about making a difference.”

Majoleeh Muller (Paarl Girls’ High School, Western Cape) explored an innovative circular-economy solution: turning fruit waste into sustainable livestock feed in Mozambique.

“I hope to bring new knowledge and inspiration back to South Africa to share with my community,” says Majoleeh. “I’m proud to be part of a global community working towards a sustainable future.”

Presenting at the “Nobel Prize for Food and Agriculture”

The Global Youth Institute takes place alongside the Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue, widely regarded as the premier global gathering on food security. Drawing over 1,200 international leaders—including UN leaders and Nobel Peace Prize laureates—the event tackles the critical question of how to ensure every person has access to safe, nutritious food.

This year’s summit carries extra significance as the World Food Prize celebrates its 40th anniversary. As part of their delegation, Poloko and Majoleeh are presenting their findings in expert-led roundtables and attending the Laureate Award Ceremony honoring 2026 winner Huub Lelieveld for his pioneering work in food safety.

The Future of Food on the Go

Opening Doors for the Next Generation

As the first Youth Institute of its kind in SADC, the initiative aims to bridge gaps in mentorship and global access for South African youth.

“South Africa has extraordinary young talent,” notes Francine Barchett, co-coordinator of the South Africa Youth Institute. “This initiative was created to open doors and help young people see a place for themselves in the future of food security. Majoleeh and Poloko are carrying solutions from South Africa straight to the world stage.”

Through their dedication, research, and passion, these two Grade 10 learners are proving that young voices aren’t just the future—they are actively shaping a hunger-free world today.