In a world facing interconnected challenges of climate change, poverty, and food insecurity, collaborative networks are essential for achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Young professionals are key actors of these efforts, bringing innovation and enthusiasm, but we often face barriers to participation such as economic instability and limited opportunities. Inclusive and supportive networks, such as Swedish International Agriculture Network Initiative (SIANI) and Swedish Institute Network for Global Professionals (SI NFGP) help us overcome these barriers by providing opportunities to share and develop skills and experience and by giving a platform for our ideas that can drive progress towards a more just and sustainable world.
As an intern at SIANI and a Swedish Institute scholar, I have experienced firsthand the impact that these networks can have on young professionals.
Empowering young professionals
SI Network for Global Professionals supports scholarship holders in planning and preparing for their careers in sustainable development, while SIANI provides a space for dialogue on sustainable, rights-based, and inclusive food systems.
Both networks help young professionals to enhance skills crucial to their future careers through leadership training, knowledge exchange, and exposure to global best practices in events, workshops, and seminars with other members and like-minded organizations and initiatives.
The SI Network for Global Professionals
One of the highlights of my time in the SI Network for Global Professionals was being a panellist at the 2024 kick-off event. It was a privilege and an inspiration to engage with over 350 global professionals from 41 countries. Together with three fellow second-year scholars, we shared reflections on our first-year experiences such as navigating the rigorous application process, moving abroad, adapting to a new academic system, and adjusting to cultural and language differences. The event also featured lectures on innovation and sustainability that sparked connections between those with similar aims who started to brainstorm future projects! This goes to show the possibilities and the transformative power of networks.
Being invited to speak at this event was a result of my active participation in workshops, mentorship programs, and learning events throughout 2023, my first year of membership. These network activities enhanced our professional and personal development, which led me to my internship at SIANI, where I had the opportunity to apply my academic knowledge and gain work experience in food systems and strategic communication.
Internship at SIANI
During my time as an intern at SIANI, I had the opportunity to not only participate in the numerous events on sustainable food systems but also grow professionally by helping to organize them. I was inspired by the successful projects ran by young professionals and the kind of possibilities for visibility and connections that the SIANI network opens up for innovation and impactful partnerships.
SIANI’s focus on sustainable food systems and agriculture complements the academic and professional growth of scholars like me. My time at SIANI has been incredibly valuable. It enhanced my skills in coordination and strategic communication and deepened my knowledge in food security through my participation in research projects, events, round table discussions on school meals, agroecology, soil health, water management and more with a diverse group of stakeholders.
Seize the opportunity and be active!
The knowledge and skills I gained as part of these networks has opened many doors for me professionally as I have discovered internship opportunities and was invited to speak at more events. It has also created partnerships lasting beyond network activities where on social media groups of like-minded members we continue to keep each other up to date with the latest developments and opportunities in sustainability.
As a scholar and a young professional, take advantage of the opportunities that such networks provide and be an active participant to reap the benefits – you are not only investing in your professional growth but also joining a community committed to creating a sustainable and inclusive future.