In a time of escalating crises—from climate shocks to rising inequality and food insecurity—staying hopeful can feel like a challenge.
Yet, as Paul Newnham emphasises, optimism is essential. By embracing systems thinking and fostering collaboration, we can channel that hope into meaningful action to end hunger and build a more resilient future.

Why our current global food systems need to change
Amidst growing world hunger driven by conflict, climate and economic crises, the World Food Programme has never been more important. In this episode, Paul catches up with Ambassador Ertharin Cousin, who shares her experience of leading the humanitarian agency, the need for innovative financing models, and how FSF is leading the way in this area.
Solving Global Food Crises requires a global perspective
In this episode of Future Fork, Paul was joined by Ammad Bahalim, Senior Program Officer at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in the Global Policy and Multilateral Engagement team. Ammad explains the Gates Foundation’s work, the critical importance of agricultural research, and why addressing global food crises requires focusing on big-picture issues like global policy frameworks and sustainable development goals.
Maximo Torero on the state of global hunger and malnutrition
Maximo Torero, Chief Economist at the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) for the United Nations, joined Paul to discuss the 2024 State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) report. Maximo provided insights into the impact of financing for food security and nutrition, the need for better financial coordination, and innovative solutions to improve global food systems.
Collaboration is vital to addressing global food security issues
Asma Lateef is the Chief of Policy and Advocacy Impact for the SDG2 Advocacy Hub, which coordinates global campaigning and advocacy to end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture by 2030. Asma discusses her work as an advocate for tackling global food issues, including sustainability, nutrition, and adapting to a changing climate. She emphasises the need for collaboration in addressing these issues and highlights insights from the G20 Summit in Rio.