Stories from World Food Day: The Journey of a Young Beekeeper

October 16^th marks the World Food Day, a day promoting worldwide awareness of hunger and promoting action for the future of food, people and the planet. Ahead of the day, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has highlighted food heroes from around the world, including 22-year-old Züleyha Ceylan from Türkiye. Living in the province of Düzce, a province rich in farmlands and forests, Züleyha is a beekeeper, who has successfully sold out about 100 kilos of honey in her first year.

In Düzce, more than 32 percent of the youth between 15 and 24 are unemployed. Beekeeping offers a great alternative to office jobs for those looking for employment, as it requires little land and relatively modest investment, and offers flexible hours. Her success can be attributed to a mix of passion and targeted support. In August 2025, Züleyha joined a training programme organized by the FAO and the Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry. She was joined by nine other beekeepers and participants, learning how to market her products, treat bee diseases, manage colonies, and more. This provided not only new skills, but also the chance for local beekeepers to network with each other.

However, challenges remain. The impacts of climate change, such as shifting rainfall patterns and rising temperatures, are affecting bee health and honey yields. At the same time, rural depopulation continues as many young people move to urban areas in search of work. In response, FAO and the Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry are collaborating on projects that promote sustainable production, branding, and youth participation in rural livelihoods.

“Together with FAO, we are working to strengthen the beekeeping sector while encouraging young people to stay in their hometowns,” said Ezra Uzun, Provincial Director of Agriculture and Forestry. “Our vision is to pass on agricultural heritage to new generations, combining it with knowledge and technology.”

Standing among her hives, Züleyha looks toward the future with optimism. She hopes to expand her production to include royal jelly, bee bread, and propolis, and one day to build her own company and provide jobs for others. Her story reflects how local innovation and determination can shape the future of food and rural livelihoods. This World Food Day, Züleyha stands among the many young producers showing that sustainable farming is not only possible but full of promise for the generations to come.

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