Williams: Children are powerful agents of change in the child hunger and malnutrition fight

Williams, a 17-year-old young advocate with World Vision’s ENOUGH campaign who attended the Nutrition for Growth Summit in Paris, explains why children are powerful agents of change and leaders must listen to them in the fight to end child hunger and malnutrition.

I am Williams, a young advocate with World Vision Sierra Leone. As a young leader in my community, my journey into the heart of the nutrition debate began with a simple observation: the vibrant energy of my peers was dimmed by the persistent shadow of hunger. 

I saw firsthand the impact of malnutrition on their ability to learn, to play, and to thrive. This wasn't just a statistic; it was the reality of my friends, neighbours, and community.

Nutrition concerns in my community are stark

In our community, the concerns about nutrition are stark. We see children struggling to concentrate in school, their growth stunted, and their immune systems weakened. Children have spoken with raw honesty in the Nutrition Dialogues we've held.

The dialogues are an initiative led by World Vision International and 4SD Foundation, where 10,000+ children and adults in 54 countries met to discuss the nutrition issues they face, their concerns, and solutions.

Children told us about skipping meals, eating only one type of food, and feeling constantly tired. They've expressed their fears about being unable to reach their full potential because of hunger. They've shared stories of their younger siblings being sick more often. They have asked for help.

Children are powerful agents of change

These dialogues have made one thing abundantly clear: children and young people are not just beneficiaries of nutrition programmes; we are powerful agents of change. We can support the commitments made at the Nutrition for Growth Summit in several crucial ways, including:

• We can be ambassadors in our schools and communities, spreading awareness about healthy eating habits and the importance of diverse diets. We can teach each other about the benefits of local, nutritious foods.
• We can use our voices to advocate for policies that prioritise nutrition, hold our leaders accountable, and demand access to healthy food for all. We can also use social media to amplify our messages and mobilise support.
• We can participate in or initiate community gardens, school feeding programmes, and other local food initiatives, ensuring that fresh, nutritious food is accessible to everyone.

Why leaders must listen to children and young people

But why is it so vital that governments and organisations listen to children and young people in this fight?

Firstly, we are the ones who directly experience the effects of malnutrition. We understand the challenges and barriers to accessing healthy food better than anyone. Our insights are invaluable in designing effective solutions.

Secondly, we are the present and the future. Investing in our nutrition is investing in our communities, nations, and world. When healthy and well-nourished, we can contribute with our talents and skills to build a better future for all.

Thirdly, involving us fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility. When we feel heard and empowered, we are more motivated to take action and make a change with our energy and new ideas.

Let us work together to create a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive, free from the shackles of hunger and malnutrition. Let us listen to our young people's voices and empower them to lead the way towards a healthier, more just society.

Children and young people are calling for Governments to listen to their concerns, experiences, and solutions to hunger and malnutrition. World Vision stands alongside these incredible young leaders. Stand with us and take action.