Global Climate Smart Agriculture Youth Network (GCSAYN) Welcomes Dr. Hans Hoogeveen as New Board Chair
Rome/The Hague, 10 November 2025: The Global Climate Smart Agriculture Youth Network (GCSAYN) proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Hans Hoogeveen, an internationally respected Dutch diplomat and sustainability champion, as Chair of the GCSAYN Board of Directors.
Championing Youth and Climate-Smart Agriculture
Dr. Hoogeveen is known for his lifelong commitment to creating a more sustainable and food-secure world. As the former Independent Chairperson of the FAO Council, and previously the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Netherlands to the UN Organizations for Food and Agriculture, he has been a driving force behind international efforts to make agriculture smarter, greener, and more inclusive.
Earlier in his career, Dr. Hoogeveen served as the Director General for Agriculture and Nature Management at the Netherlands Ministry of Economic Affairs, overseeing key areas such as food safety, international trade, biodiversity, and food security. He was instrumental in founding the Global Alliance for Climate Smart Agriculture and the Global Action Network for Oceans and Blue Growth, both of which promote collaborative, innovative solutions for climate resilience.
He has also held prominent leadership roles including President of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and Facilitator of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). In addition, he continues to inspire future leaders as Professor of Practice in Natural Resource Policy at The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy and as lead lecturer in European Policy at the Netherlands School for Public Government.
Quotes
“Young people are central to achieving the 2030 Agenda,” said Dr. Hans Hoogeveen. “By reducing food loss and waste, promoting climate-smart solutions, and forming smart alliances across sectors, we can ensure a food-secure and sustainable future for all.”
“We are deeply honored to have Dr. Hoogeveen join us as Board Chair,” stated Mr. Divine Ntiokam, Founder and Executive Director of GCSAYN. “His leadership and vision align perfectly with GCSAYN’s mission to empower young people as key actors in global climate and food systems transformation. Together, we will strengthen our work in advancing climate-smart agriculture, building resilience, and creating opportunities for youth worldwide.”
Looking Ahead
Dr. Hoogeveen’s appointment marks a new era for GCSAYN. Under his leadership, the network aims to deepen global partnerships, amplify youth voices in agricultural innovation, and strengthen its role as a catalyst for climate action and food security.
About the Global Climate Smart Agriculture Youth Network (GCSAYN)
Founded in 2014, the Global Climate Smart Agriculture Youth Network (GCSAYN) connects young changemakers, farmers, scientists, and innovators in over 100 countries. Through training, research, and advocacy, GCSAYN empowers youth and women to lead local and global solutions for sustainable agriculture and climate resilience.