FAO recognizes the young farmers shaping the region’s agricultural landscape

Across Europe and Central Asia, a new generation of farmers are using their innovation and vision to reshape agriculture. Armed with bold ideas, boundless energy and a deep commitment to sustainability, young people not only are breathing new life into rural areas, but they also are driving the transition towards resilient, inclusive and future-ready agrifood systems.

On 2 October 2025, within the Forty-fourth Session of the European Commission on Agriculture in Budapest, Hungary, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) recognized three trailblazing young farmers for their outstanding achievement, one each in three categories: innovation in agrifood systems, community building, and inclusion and empowerment.

Recognizing the unique power of youth to drive positive change, FAO is investing in their growth and leadership. In line with the United Nations Decade of Family Farming (2019–2028), FAO has launched the Mark of Recognition of Young Farmers in Europe and Central Asia, a flagship regional initiative that also celebrates the Organization’s eightieth anniversary. This initiative shines a spotlight on the ingenuity, leadership and commitment of young farmers across the region.

“Supporting youth is a vital investment in the future of food, the health of our planet, and the resilience of communities across the region,” said Viorel Gutu, FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative. “As part of its commitment to better production, better nutrition, a better environment and a better life for all, leaving no one behind, FAO is working to equip young people with the skills, knowledge and tools needed to lead the agricultural transformation.”

Drone technology in sheep farming

Lourdes Perona López, from Valdepeñas de Jaén, Spain, was recognized for innovation in agrifood systems related to her efforts pioneering drone and GPS technology in the organic sheep farm she’s running. Thanks to these tools, she can track each animal in real time, preventing losses, optimizing grazing patterns and reducing the need for manual herding – actions that help minimize stress and allow for better flock and pasture monitoring and assessment, which in turn helps quickly detect issues such as predators and injured animals.

Lourdes’ techniques are practical, cost-effective and scalable, offering a model that other farms can adopt.
“My vision for a sustainable future is agriculture that combines ecological practices and accessible technology, respecting the environment and strengthening the local economy,” she shares. “Through my work, I benefit the community by promoting responsible resource use and supporting local farmers. Sharing knowledge in these settings has allowed me to inspire young farmers to adopt sustainable innovations and appreciate the importance of soil and digitalization for the future of farming.”

In addition to her innovative spirit, Lourdes also is a champion of women’s empowerment in rural development. As a member of the board of directors of a local rural women’s association, she works to raise awareness of women’s work in agriculture while breaking stereotypes and fostering support networks that drive real equality.

Gathering the community around the raspberry orchards

Ruslan Kubanychbekov was recognized for community building. He returned to his village, Zhangak, in Kosh-Dobo, Kyrgyzstan, after working in a city away from home. Since then, he has become a trailblazer in the production of raspberries, watermelons and cherries. He and his family have developed and adopted innovative technology for the production of biohumus, an organic fertilizer produced from manure, and have stopped using chemical fertilizers.

Not only did this boost yields significantly, but it also turned Ruslan into a local role model. He has inspired more than ten fellow villagers to start their own farms using environmentally friendly practices. As his village grapples with an acute shortage of jobs – leaving many residents seeking work abroad, separate from their families – Ruslan is helping the community find another way. During the raspberry season, he organizes temporary jobs, helping families improve their incomes.

“Thanks to these innovations, our community is moving towards sustainable development, preserving the environment and strengthening social ties,” he says, “which allows people to work close to their families and build a future at home.”

Empowerment and social inclusion during conflict

Yevheniia Molchanova, from Dnipro region in Ukraine, is the founder of Green Grove – a unique, multifunctional space focused on ethical farming and the rehabilitation of people and animals. Yevheniia readily shares this production model with other farms to increase productivity and reduce the environmental impact in her community and across Ukraine. 
Her methods are innovative and holistic, but her mission goes way beyond farming, earning her  recognition for inclusion and empowerment.

“I believe that true development is only possible through equality and the inclusion of every member of the community,” she explains. “That is why we are actively empowering rural women and youth by providing them with access to modern education and skills in farming, craft production and social entrepreneurship. For people with disabilities, we create a barrier-free environment and adapted programmes where everyone can get new opportunities for self-realization.”

Youth at the heart of sustainable development

These young changemakers are showing that agriculture is not only about feeding people – it is about revitalizing communities, driving innovation and shaping a fairer future. FAO’s initiative provides a platform for these leaders to share their stories, solutions and innovations while inspiring others and contributing to broader regional dialogues on food, agriculture and rural development. Through this recognition, FAO is helping create pathways for more young people to enter and thrive in agriculture.

On 3 October, the second day of the European Commission on Agriculture session, FAO is organizing a side event to highlight FAO’s work on rural youth, explore opportunities for engagement and empowerment, and build on the inspiring stories of the three awardees.