Inspiring future forest leaders through dialogue and knowledge exchange

^{Students attend FAO's Plenary at FAO headquarters.} 

Students were then introduced to the various initiatives and projects led by the FAO’s Forestry Division. Through these briefings, they learned about the critical importance of sustainable forest management practices and the role of FAO in promoting global and national forest policies. The students were particularly interested in the ways FAO collaborates with different nations to implement ecosystem restoration and to support sustainable forest management, which, they were told, are vital for achieving sustainable development goals. 

The enthusiasm of the students was palpable as they participated in discussions and networking sessions with FAO forestry professionals. These interactions provided invaluable insights into the practical aspects of working in the field of forestry and the impact of their contributions. 

Thomas Hofer, Senior Forestry Officer, provided an overview of NFO’s mandate, structure, and priority areas, offering students a clear picture of how FAO supports countries in managing and monitoring their forests. 

The highlight of the morning was an engaging panel discussion, where students heard firsthand from NFO experts and youth professionals. The speakers shared insights into their current roles and walked students through their career journeys, including the challenges they faced and the strategies that helped them succeed.  

Panelists included Rocio Condor, who presented FAO’s capacity development work on forest data transparency; Yelena Finegold, who discussed restoration monitoring initiatives under the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration and AIM4Nature; Anne Branthomme, who spoke about the Global Forest Resources Assessment; Maria Ruiz Villar, who focused on community forestry; and Yunjeong Won, who highlighted work on forest and youth engagement planed this year as part of FAO’s 80th Aniversary. 

The session concluded with an informal Q&A session, where students and FAO professionals connected over shared interests and discussed what inspires them to pursue a career in the forestry field. 

“This kind of exchange is essential – not only to inform us, but to inspire us. I see myself working in the forestry development sector – and why not in the UN system, maybe even here at FAO one day,” said Bora Karataş IFSA Vice President. 

As a follow-up, participants will be invited to share reflections on their visit through written testimonials, social media posts, and contributions to the World Forest Voices podcast series—further amplifying youth perspectives in the global forestry dialogue.