Seeding change: empowering youth in Vietnam’s Horticulture sector

Across Southeast Asia, countries like Vietnam face similar challenges in modernizing food production and food security. Young people often see agriculture, including the horticulture sector, as outdated and offering little potential for a prosperous career. This perception has led to a concerning drop in students enrolling in agriculture majors and a declining number of farmers. How can we change that narrative by showcasing the many exciting possibilities the sector has to offer? The Empower Youth4Food (EY4F) campaign aims to bridge this awareness gap and attract students to the diverse and modern opportunities within the horticulture sector. "Young people are not just the future workforce – they are the pioneers of technology, innovation, and sustainable agriculture", says EY4F coordinator Lotte Troost.

She explains the campaign serves as a platform for young innovators to explore career opportunities, connect with like-minded individuals, and draw inspiration from success stories and hands-on experiences. "One exciting example is Empower Youth4Food's presence at the HortEx 2025 that took place in Ho Chi Minh City from 12-14 March, where we also hosted a session on how young professionals can drive innovation and sustainability in Vietnam's horticulture sector."

In April, the campaign will organize the Changemaker Challenge, in collaboration with the Netherlands Food Partnership and top universities in Vietnam and the Netherlands. "This global challenge will encourage Vietnamese youth to create nature-based solutions to shape the future of Vietnam's food system, working with real-life cases from companies like Rijk Zwaan."

According to Lotte, EY4F is more than just a tool – it is a movement driven by passionate young leaders who take up the role of youth ambassadors. "They are young Vietnamese who have chosen agriculture as their career and proudly share career opportunities in the sector and engage potential impact partners – companies and organizations active in Vietnam's horticulture sector who would like to connect with talented youth."

"To continue inspiring and empowering Vietnam's young generation, we need support", she continues, asking organizations interested to get involved and make an impact, to become a partner. "We look for companies that collaborate with us through activities such as hosting a field visit to provide hands-on industry exposure to students, sharing expertise through a guest lecture or serving as a jury member in student competitions, or sharing entry-level position and internship vacancies available in your company."

For more information:
EY4F
Lotte Troost
ctroost@nuffic.nl