On May 20–23, FOSTER hosted its third Summer School in Sopron, Hungary, welcoming around 38 participants, including project partners from academia and CDIs (Change-Driven Initiatives), and external experts affiliated with CDIs. The FOSTER partners continued their joint efforts to transform food systems.
The FOSTER Summer School aims to cultivate mutual understanding, a shared vocabulary, and meaningful application of transformation concepts.
This year, the project focused on:
- Understanding how CDI partners are navigating food system transformation;
- Pinpointing synergies between FOSTER and CDIs;
- Learning from one another to strengthen CDIs` transformation processes.
The first day started with a comprehensive revisit of key transformation concepts, referencing themes introduced during the pre-Summer School webinar. Discussions focused on the importance of setting clear objectives and timelines, revisiting tools, and drawing lessons from prior Summer School experiences. This set the stage for re-aligning with FOSTER’s overarching mission.
Following this, project members shared updates on their ongoing work and collaboratively planned next steps for upcoming activities.
In the afternoon, project members conducted a local field visit to meet with three Hungarian food producers. These producers offered diverse perspectives on implementing transformative practices in food systems—local farmers and producers, scaling their operations and exploring innovative production methods. These exchanges illuminated key enablers and barriers to driving transformation on the ground.
To document the day and support reflection and outreach efforts, brief interviews with project members were carried out.
You can explore the Summer School video and watch the interviews below.
The second day marked a series of sessions, led by the FOSTER CDIs in cooperation with the project partners, each exploring a critical theme in food systems transformation.
One of the central themes explored during the session was the necessity of transformations within the food system, with a particular focus on the specific areas each CDI is actively working to change. Participants examined both systemic barriers and opportunities for change, highlighting diverse approaches to creating a more equitable, sustainable, and resilient food system.
Each CDI showcased their strategic priorities and explained the key areas in which they are actively working to implement transformational changes, aligned with the organization’s broader goals.
During the discussion, an important question was raised regarding the nature of the CDIs engagement with policies and policymakers. This prompted a broader reflection on how CDIs position themselves within the policy landscape. As part of this process, each CDI was encouraged to reflect on their existing connections with policies and policymakers by outlining three strategies they currently use, as well as identifying three key barriers they face. This exercise aimed to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities involved in policy engagement, and to help CDIs think critically about how to strengthen their influence and alignment with relevant policy agendas.
An important part of the conversation was learning to think in terms of food systems, which can help CDIs better reach their goals. This means understanding how different parts of the food world are connected. CDIs also spent time thinking about what kinds of knowledge they use in their work. By recognizing and using all these types of knowledge, CDIs can make a bigger difference.
A strong focus was placed on the importance of trust and mutual expectations within food systems, especially concerning the interactions between CDIs and their various stakeholders. The dialogue considered how misunderstandings, perceived inequities, and failures in accountability can destroy trust. The session also addressed how rebuilding trust may involve mechanisms like inclusive dialogue, shared governance structures, and transparent decision-making. Central to the discussion were two guiding questions: What causes mistrust in partnerships, and what strategies are effective in restoring trust and effective collaboration?
Throughout the day, by engaging in a structured dialogue guided by strategic questioning, CDIs identified critical issues and uncovered hidden patterns, ultimately revealing the most effective approach to navigate their transition.
Day three started with a dynamic reflection session that encouraged everyone to voice their thoughts, feelings, and experiences so far. The session created an open space where participants could talk about what resonated with them, what could be improved, and what ideas they had for the future. It wasn’t just about gathering feedback—it was about listening and co-creating the path forward. The discussions highlighted both the strengths of the current format and opportunities for new directions, ensuring that each voice played a role in shaping what comes next.
A dedicated session on governance and policy was also organized, focusing on key insights derived from the FOSTER D4.1. This session invited participants to critically reflect on a set of governance recommendations, categorized into four thematic clusters: (1) expanding the knowledge scope of Knowledge and Innovation System (KIS), (2) ensuring policy alignment and integration, (3) promoting justice and food democracy, and (4) strengthening collaboration and network-building. The primary objective of the session was to assess the relevance and applicability of these recommendations to CDIs. Participants engaged in meaningful dialogue, offering valuable perspectives on both the feasibility and impact of each recommendation. The feedback gathered during this session provided important insights that may inform future strategies and policy development within FOSTER.
This year’s Summer School provided us with fresh perspectives on transformation. It served as a valuable platform for collaborative learning, allowing us to come together, share experiences, and reflect on the evolving role of CDIs in driving meaningful transition. The discussions and activities highlighted the power of collective engagement in shaping adaptive and forward-thinking strategies.
