Carl Lewis

Some 600 FAO staff took part in the “Stand Up” event against hunger during World Food Day.

Colleagues in the Atrium at headquarters were united with millions across the world in the “Stand Up, Take Action, End Hunger and Poverty Now!” mobilization, calling for action to achieve the Millennium Development Goals.

FAO’s new Goodwill Ambassador Carl Lewis addressed staff before the event, saying everyone had a role to play in bringing about change.

“All of you, all of us can make a difference. It’s people doing things for other people. I will be right there to do everything I can, it’s our responsibility,” he said.

A minute’s silence was held in remembrance of the world’s hungry people at 1.02pm, to reflect the 1.02 billion malnourished people across the globe, before the official “Stand Up” moment.

There followed an impromptu dance, or “flash mob” involving around 50 staff, which was also filmed for YouTube and other social networks.