It began in 2022 with the vision of providing young people with the space, support, and confidence to spearhead the transition to a more equitable & sustainable food future. Thanks to the WWF’s Food and Farming Fund, FarmED, and the passion of 23 young people from across the food system, the idea grew fast and we soon became a vibrant and diverse network of 18–35-year-olds from all four corners of the UK, working to transform the food system from the ground up. In 2024, we became a Community Interest Company (CIC).
Today, Emergent Generation is a growing, youth-led network of 400+ members that encourages and empowers young people to build a fairer food system that nourishes people and planet. We connect rural, peri-urban, and urban communities to knowledge, skills, opportunity, and inspiration. Our members co-create spaces where a dairy farmer and a vegan chef can have a respectful, informed debate; where a first-time grower finds a mentor; where collaboration leads the way. Why does this matter? Few can deny that we’re failing to find
the solutions we need to the climate, biodiversity, and human health crises. Thankfully, the farmers, growers, advisers, researchers, chefs, and retailers of tomorrow get it. Many of our young folk are holistic thinkers who see the deep connections between food, climate, health, and fairness. They understand their role but can feel powerless and overwhelmed; today’s economic pressures make even the most prepared feel nervous about the risks of farming.
The transition to an agroecological future is complex. High levels of knowledge and confidence are needed to put key principles into practice. Emergent Generation aims to provide young people with the support they need. Our events are held across the UK, often in partnership with other food, farming, and youth organisations. We also run regular farm walks, online sessions, and share a newsletter full of opportunities – all designed to turn passion & hope into action.
If you’re aged 18–35 and care about the future of food, you can join Emergent Generation for free. Visit emergentgeneration.co.uk to learn more.
Becky Grove and Jonty Brunyee are co-founders, directors & facilitators of Emergent Generation CIC – a network of young people working to build an agroecological and regenerative food future.
I am thankful for these young people, and wish them all the best.