YPARD Networks in Action

Lead Organization:

YPARD CAPITULO PERUANO

Partner Organizations:

FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations); IFAD (International Fund for Agricultural Development); Local Universities and Research Centers (e.g., Central University of Ecuador, Universidad Mayor de San Andrés); Youth and Rural Development Organizations; CdP Andes

Community of Practice:

Andes

Countries:

Ecuador Bolivia Peru

Duration:

11/2024—11/2025

Overview:

This project aims to strengthen youth participation in rural development and sustainable food systems in Ecuador and Bolivia by establishing and consolidating YPARD (Young Professionals for Agricultural Development) national chapters. The project will promote regional collaboration, training of young leaders, and the creation of strategic alliances to ensure long-term sustainability and growth of the YPARD network in the region. It will also contribute to rural development and resilient food systems in these countries by empowering youth to lead meaningful projects.

Grant Aims:

  • Strengthen youth participation in rural development and sustainable food systems in Ecuador and Bolivia.
  • Establish and consolidate YPARD chapters in both countries.
  • Foster regional collaboration between YPARD chapters in Ecuador, Bolivia, and Peru.
  • Train and develop a new generation of young leaders in rural development and food systems.
  • Develop a guide for replicating the chapter establishment process to ensure the network’s long-term growth.

Outputs and Outcomes:

Outputs

  • Establishment of 2 national chapters in Ecuador and Bolivia by 2025.
  • Consolidation of 2 national chapters working in coordination with other chapters in the region (especially Peru) and the YPARD LAC team.
  • Strengthening regional collaboration between the Peruvian, Bolivian, and Ecuadorian YPARD LAC chapters.

Outcomes

  • Increased youth involvement and leadership in rural development and sustainable food systems.
  • Enhanced regional collaboration and knowledge exchange among YPARD chapters.
  • Development of a sustainable and replicable model for establishing YPARD chapters in other countries.
  • Increased training and development opportunities for young leaders in rural development.
  • Improved networking and strategic alliances with universities, research institutions, and agrifood organizations.