Five Ohio high school students attended the milestone 30th Global Youth Institute in Des Moines, Iowa, joining nearly 200 of the world's brightest young leaders to tackle critical global challenges. This annual event, organized by the World Food Prize Foundation, provides top students worldwide an opportunity to explore and present solutions to issues like hunger, poverty, and environmental sustainability.
The Ohio delegation included Amelie Anderson (senior, Dublin Coffman High School), Liam Basta (sophomore, Bio-Med Science Academy), Sadie Hovis (sophomore, Bio-Med Science Academy), Zara Iqbal (junior, Dublin Coffman High School), and Audrey Price (senior, Dublin Coffman High School). These students were accompanied by Heidi Hisrich, a 9th grade Science Instructor at Bio-Med Science Academy, and guided by Margo Overholt-Seckel, the Program Manager for Ohio 4-H Workforce Development & Pathways and Coordinator of the Ohio Youth Institute.
The Global Youth Institute is a core program of the World Food Prize Foundation, designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders in global food security. In addition to presenting their research, the students participated in the renowned Borlaug Dialogue, a symposium named after Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Dr. Norman Borlaug. This event brings together global leaders, scientists, and policymakers to discuss cutting-edge developments in food security and agricultural innovation.
"This event allows students to understand the global reach of their work and inspires them to make meaningful contributions to issues impacting people worldwide," said Overholt-Seckel. "The ideas and passion these young leaders bring to the table are invaluable as we strive to address complex food security challenges."
David Civittolo, Interim Associate Dean and Director of OSU Extension and Interim Chair of the Department of Extension, emphasized the significance of Ohio’s participation. “Ohio is proud to support young people committed to solving the world’s biggest challenges,” Civittolo said. “The Global Youth Institute is a transformative experience that shapes their perspectives on global issues, instills a commitment to service, and encourages lifelong learning.”
Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the Global Youth Institute offered Ohio's youth the chance to engage in roundtable discussions; present their research on innovative agricultural solutions; and participate in activities alongside Nobel and World Food Prize laureates, government officials, and industry leaders. They also collaborated with other youth on ways to bring their knowledge back to their communities, fostering both local and global impact.
The Global Youth Institute experience, supported by Ohio 4-H; Ohio State University Extension; Ohio State College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences; and Farm Credit Mid-America, reflects Ohio's commitment to empowering young people through education and leadership development. This opportunity connects Ohio youth with pathways to future careers in agriculture, sustainability, and global development.
For more information on how Ohio youth can get involved in future events like the Global Youth Institute, please contact Margo Overholt-Seckel or visit go.osu.edu/oyi. The next Ohio Youth Institute will be held on April 14, 2025, at Ohio State University, and registration is due by March 12, 2025.