Transforming Africa’s Urban Food Systems

Luke spent the past 14 years actively immersed in civil society organisations and fledgling research institutes, working at the forefront of transdisciplinary research and transformative learning, and specialising in urban food security programmes, food systems governance and social-learning processes. He has worked extensively with global leaders across the spectrum of system change – from grant-makers and policy think-tanks, to universities and social movements. Luke holds a BA in Applied Design, a Masters in Sustainable Development Planning, and a PhD that focussed on the role of informal learning networks and youth in food system transformation. Luke also has a small flock of chickens and some young fruit trees that are teaching him a lot about patience and collaboration!

Paul is fascinated by the multi-layered relationships that give each city its unique flavour. With his Sustainable Development MPhil and current doctoral research, Paul uses urban metabolism, resource nexus and political ecology as lenses for shaping sustainable, inclusive cities. At ICLEI, he supports local governments to apply systems perspectives to food, water, energy and nature, and facilitates the development of policies and plans appropriate to contexts of change and uncertainty.

Ruby recently graduated with a masters in Development Planning from the University of the Witwatersrand with a research focus on informal recycling systems in Johannesburg’s suburbs. Her undergraduate degree in Politics, Philosophy and Economics illustrates her affinity for multidisciplinary ways of thinking. Ruby sees her role as Communications Officer at ICLEI Africa as the perfect marriage between her professional background in marketing and communications, her education and passion for sustainable urban planning, spatial justice and the environment, and her creative flair.

Ivan is a master’s graduate in Sustainable Development Planning and Management from Stellenbosch University. He is passionate about sustainability in Africa. He has a background in economics, food, energy, transdisciplinary research, social entrepreneurship, impact investment and financing the Sustainable Development Goals. He as just over three years’ experience as a project manager and researcher in the field of sustainability and alternative food systems.

Fru holds a PhD in Development Studies, specializing in maternal and child nutrition and its impact on maternal labor force participation, an MSc in Economics, and certification in Urban Food Systems. Passionate about sustainable development and its implications on food system outcomes, she has over five years of work experience on issues relating to sustainable food systems. With a blend of qualitative and quantitative research skills, she is equipped to tackle multifaceted challenges. Fru's expertise extends beyond academia; she is a trained AgriCluster Resilience and Expansion (ACRE) facilitator affiliated with the North American Food Systems Network. She has received specialized training in Home-grown School Feeding for local governments and municipalities, demonstrating her commitment to practical solutions for sustainable food systems at the local and global levels.

Tashi holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Sustainable Development from the Sustainability Institute, University of Stellenbosch. This is complemented by over 6 years of hands-on experience in urban agriculture and environmental education initiatives across Cape Town and its environs. She has a steadfast dedication to more equitable and resilient systems in anticipation of the increasingly difficult urban challenges we are facing. She currently works at ICLEI Africa on various projects, as well as coordinating the AfriFOODlinks Youth Ambassadorship program.