Youth-led Local Action Against Food Waste: A Visit to SOCITY BXL

On the occasion of the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste (IDAFLW), the Liaison Offices of FAO and UNEP in Brussels visited SOCITY BXL, a local non-profit led by young entrepreneurs passionate about sustainable food.

SOCITY rescues unsold organic and bio food from partners such as The Barn and Happy Hours market, and transforms it into affordable, creative “bistronomic” meals prepared by junior chefs.

Their mission combines tackling food waste, raising awareness of food insecurity, and fostering cultural integration through shared meals.

The 27-year-old co-founder, Amaury Ileka, explains:

 “Our goal? Fighting food waste by transforming surplus ingredients into healthy, gastronomy-inspired dishes, and making them accessible to as many people as possible. Beyond the plate, what truly drives me is bringing people from all walks of life together around the same table. I believe that food is the best way to bring people closer.” 

SOCITY’s work includes a daily meal stand at The Continental in Brussels, monthly community dinners offering three-course menus at accessible prices, and previous food distributions for vulnerable groups in partnership with local associations such as Operation Thermos.

By giving new life to surplus food and creating spaces of connection, SOCITY uses youth-led initiatives and local action to eradicate food waste.

Learn more about the International Day against Food Loss and Waste here and FAO’s work on food loss and waste here.