SFYN academy 2025

The SFYN Academy is a breeding ground for new collaborations, knowledge, and vision for the future of our food. For six months you will go on an interdisciplinary journey through the Netherlands. We interact with scientists, farmers, growers, fishermen, chefs and entrepreneurs, attend workshops and lectures, and roll up our own sleeves. Constructive conversations and good questions are key. In a time of debate and polarization, together we still build a bridge between diverse perspectives. For example, between conventional and organic, between the oat milk elite and the far corners of our country, and between technology and ecology.

Your own food issue

During the SFYN Academy, you step out of your bubble. You go through all the links in the food chain, and are sponsored by a client. This client gives you an assignment to work on in a group. In addition to the substantive program, you will work on a pressing issue from the food sector, from the business community, an NGO or government agency. In this way you can make an impact during the academy and make connections in the SFYN network for after your participation.

"The academy exposes where the current food system is currently breaking down, while also offering perspective and opportunities." - Maria Geuze, director of SFYN

Your future network

After 14 years, the SFYN Academy network has more than 350 food changers making sustainable impact in the Dutch food system in their own places and ways. Former SFYN Academy participants demonstrate daily what that can mean. They have put food waste on the map, set the bar high for taste and animal welfare, bring farmer and citizen closer together, and take a close look at food policy. It is not unique for SFYN'ers to start a business together, give each other a career boost, or go on an adventure! As a participant, you become a member of a tight-knit network that together is building the food system of the future.

Wanted: the future of our food system

From farmer to chef, scientist to designer, student to entrepreneur: the SFYN Academy is for all young people with a passion for what's on our plates - regardless of your experience. Are you ready for a substantive, challenging and fun dive into the food system? The Academy is looking for all perspectives, (both socio-cultural and professional) backgrounds and areas of expertise: only together can we make change happen. The only requirement is that you are curious and want to contribute to positive change in the food system.

"What I like about SFYN is that we don't always agree with each other, but still work toward the same goal. That feels like a nice safety net." - Former participant Merel Nolet, cook and copywriter

Practical information

The SFYN Academy is a project of Slow Food Youth Network Netherlands. The 15th edition will start in January 2025, and you can apply between September 1 and October 31. A selection will be made from the applications. The program lasts six months and consists of an opening weekend, six theme days, and a trip. Beyond that, you will work in a group on a case, which will be concluded during the closing day. Participants are between the ages of 18 and 35, have an ardent passion for food. Whether you are still studying or already working, directly or indirectly in the food chain, every voice counts. Check out all the terms and information via the button below.