New-Gen Global Food Systems Network

The New-Gen Global Food Systems Network (NGFSN), hereafter referred to as the Network, is a collaborative platform designed to empower students dedicated to addressing global food security challenges. This initiative fosters knowledge exchange and innovative thinking, research collaborations, and professional networking across food, agriculture, natural resources, and the human sciences (FANHS) disciplines. Members (faculty mentors, students, community partners, and alumni) work collaboratively to plan and participate in quarterly discussions, share insights on current and pressing issues in FANHS, share research experiences, and explore new career opportunities and channels. Through this Network, members (most importantly, students) gain exposure to cutting-edge research, industry expertise, and valuable professional connections, enhancing their capacity as future leaders in global food systems.

The NGFSN is an outgrowth of the partnership between the Florida A&M University (FAMU) Office of International Agriculture Programs (OIAP)/ Center for International Agricultural Trade Development Research and Training (CIATDRT) and the University of California-Davis (UC-Davis) Trellis Fund Fellowship Program (TFFP). The TFFP is an international research internship program that was first developed by UC-Davis and recently implemented by FAMU. The TFFP engaged graduate students in the FANHS disciplines in research internships in targeted global regions to provide students with the opportunity to work with researchers and peers to address local FANHS challenges. Through this initiative, FAMU’s International Agriculture Programs is continuing to fulfill its commitment to developing agricultural leaders who understand both scientific innovation and community needs.

The Network is engaging the 2024 Trellis Fellows, the 2025 Trellis applicants who were selected for participation, FAMU students engaged in short-term study, and other students interested in expanding their knowledge and networks related to global food systems. Participants will have access to structured discussions, targeted research collaborations, expert insights, and a shared repository of learning materials aimed at building expertise, encouraging innovation, facilitating peer learning, and strengthening professional networks. Participation in this virtual initiative and related engagements will be voluntary.

This virtual initiative aims to cultivate a global community of young leaders in food security and agricultural innovation. To ensure its strategic impact, the initiative falls under the umbrella of CIATDRT at FAMU’s OIAP. This affiliation will provide institutional support and facilitate its alignment with broader academic and professional development programs of the Center.

We are empowering the next generation of thinkers to be not only academically and technically proficient, but also globally competent, socially responsive, and prepared to lead sustainable solutions for the challenges of our global food systems.

Vision and Mission

Vision
The NGFSN envisions a globally connected and collaborative learning community that cultivates the next generation of leaders and changemakers in FANHS. Rooted in the land-grant tradition and guided by OIAP/CIATDRT’s commitment to global engagement, the Network aims to produce graduates who are not only academically and technically proficient but also internationally competent, socially responsive, and equipped to lead sustainable solutions for global food system challenges.
Mission
The mission of the NGFSN is to integrate global perspectives into student development by fostering international research, teaching, and outreach experiences across the fields of food, agriculture, natural resources, and human sciences (FANHS). In alignment with CIATDRT’s mission, the Network seeks to empower students with the competencies, global awareness, and collaborative skills needed to contribute effectively to food security and sustainability in a dynamic, interconnected world.

Purpose of the Network

Focus Areas	Objectives	Implementation

Expertise Development	Enhance participants' knowledge retention and application by providing key learning takeaways, structured discussions, and mentorship opportunities.	Pair students/mentees with faculty mentors for guided learning in food-related projects; Organize structured discussions with clear learning takeaways.

Encouraging Innovation	Foster creative problem-solving by integrating interactive ideation sessions where students propose innovative solutions to food security challenges.	Establish dedicated spaces (Team Channel) for participants to share global food challenges; Facilitate cross-regional problem-solving teams.

Knowledge Exchange & Peer Learning	Promote structured discussions, resource sharing, and collaborative learning through shared documents and assigned student contributions.	Use Microsoft Teams and LinkedIn to share resources (Network webpage, Magazines, research articles, etc.); Allow student-led presentations during quarterly meetings to promote collaborative learning.

Community Building & Networking	Strengthen professional connections through interactive networking activities, student spotlights, and engagement opportunities.	Facilitate regular mentor–mentee meetups; Feature monthly student/mentee/mentor spotlights; Promote active Teams and LinkedIn discussion threads.

Global Vision & Cultural Exchange	Promote cross-cultural awareness, values-based leadership, and international cooperation by connecting students from diverse global backgrounds.	Match mentors and mentees across regions to encourage cross-cultural learning; Facilitate expert-led presentations during quarterly meetings to highlight diverse global perspectives.