The Hawaiʻi Youth Food Council (HYFC) uplifts youth leadership in building a more just and resilient food system. HYFC brings together young leaders from across the islands to learn, organize, and advocate for policies that increase access to healthy, culturally appropriate food. Through education, storytelling, and civic engagement, youth members shape conversations around school meals, local agriculture, food equity, and climate impacts on food systems. By investing in youth voice and leadership, we are strengthening the next generation of food system advocates in Hawaiʻi.
What We Do
Policy Advocacy
Youth work directly with legislators, agencies, and partners to support food security and local agriculture bills at the State Capitol.
Youth Leadership Development
Members gain hands-on experience in civic engagement, systems thinking, and organizing through mentorship and real-world projects.
Community Engagement
From farm-to-school efforts to food access initiatives, HYFC supports grassroots work that strengthens local food networks.
Learning & Outreach
We create accessible resources and host events that help young people understand food systems, climate impacts, and how to participate in change.
Join the Movement. Make a Difference.
Are you passionate about creating a sustainable future for Hawai‘i’s food systems? Do you dream of advocating for change, connecting with like-minded youth, and making a real impact in your community?
The Hawai‘i Youth Food Council is calling on young leaders like YOU to help us grow a healthier, more resilient Hawai‘i. Whether you’re a pro at policy, a whiz in the kitchen, or just passionate about food justice, there’s a place for your talents here.
Ready to plant the seeds of the future? Our current application cycle is now open. Click here to apply!
- Collaborate with other youth leaders across the islands.
- Advocate for food equity and sustainability.
- Bring your creativity to projects, events, and campaigns.
- Learn and grow as a changemaker!
- Be a voice for the next generation.
- Gain invaluable leadership and advocacy experience.
- Build your own adventure – find your passion!
- Help shape the future of Hawai‘i’s food systems.
HYFC is a group of motivated students from public, charter, and independent high schools from across Hawai‘i. Our mission is to engage youth in policy and systems change efforts that result in a just and equitable local food system for a healthier Hawai‘i.
With guidance and support from the Adult Allies Circle, HYFC members work together to advance the council’s mission by hosting events, creating awareness campaigns, testifying on bills in the state legislature and more. The activities of each council term is a bit different, because it’s the council members that determine the directions of the groups actions.
- Develop your leadership and communication skills.
- Work with a group of dedicated peers across neighbor islands.
- Engage in policy advocacy and event planning.
- Receive guidance and mentorship from experts in the field.
- Make a difference for Hawai‘i’s local food systems!
- Travel accommodations available for in-person meetings and events.
The application term is rolling. We will receive your application at any time. Although we recommend applying over summer break or early in the school year so you can get the full HYFC experience! The council is most active during the school year, August through May.
Any current High School or College Student in Hawaiʻi! Public, Private, Charter or Homeschool students are all eligible.
Step 1: Complete the online application. (SY26-27 opening soon!)
Step 2: The HYFC Coordinator will reach out to schedule an online interview with the applicant. The purpose of this interview is to help us to get to know you better and to give you the opportunity to learn more about HYFC membership experience.
Step 3: The Selection Committee will review your application and determine if they will or will not recommend your appointment to the council. You will be alerted of the Adult Allies recommendation in either case.
- Must be a high school or college student during the 2026-2027 school year.
- Must be passionate about food, nutrition, agriculture, and making a difference in Hawai‘i.
- Must be able to attend an online “kick off event” in August 2026 on a date/time to be determined. Future in-person meetings may take place throughout the year (to be determined).
- Must participate in two online meetings per month and check email regularly.
- Must commit to hosting We Grow Hawai’i: A Youth Food Summit during spring 2027.
- Must be able to commit approximately 10-15 hours per month to HYFC assignments, projects etc. and track hours.
IMPORTANT NOTE
Council Members may be eligible for academic credit through an internship or work study program through your academic institution. Please contact us at hyfc@hiphi.org if you are interested in linking your membership experience to your school’s work experience program.
