Ismahane Elouafi on Inclusion, Innovation, and Justice

In last week's Scholar Spotlight, Veronika Wannack, a Laidlaw Scholar at @EPFL , reflected on her leadership journey. In her spotlight, Veronika expressed her admiration for Ismahane Elouafi, particularly due to her intellect, strength and resilience. Veronika had the opportunity to meet her in person, but her kindness and attention to detail blew her away. Despite there being journalists, CEOs and investors waiting for her attention, she turned to Veronika and spoke to her and other students about goals and careers. 

This week, we reflect on Elouafi's perspective on the importance of creating inclusive systems which benefit all groups, especially those who need them the most: 

An Advocate of Systems that Serve All 

Dr Ismahane Elouafi is the Executive Managing Director of CGIAR. She previously held the position of Chief Scientist at the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) and the United Nations. She served as Director General at the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA). Dr Elouafi has held numerous scientific and leadership positions. She is a powerful champion for reevaluating food systems and expanding into lesser-known and underutilised crops. Dr Elouafi is known around the world for her work on advancing sustainable agriculture through using non-fresh water and uplifting women in STEM. 

Throughout her career, Dr Elouafi has promoted enhanced food system resilience through the diversification of food. She has specifically focused on halophytes such as quinoa and Salicornia, making a considerable impact on food security in countries dealing with salinity problems. She has also written and contributed to many well-known publications – such as on Foodomics and the Gaza food crisis. 

Leadership Rooted in Social Good 

Dr Elouafi is an inspiring leader, not only for her scientific expertise but for her unwavering commitment to inclusion and equity. She applies her knowledge to develop systems that serve everyone—especially those in under-resourced regions—rather than just the privileged few. Her work has had a tangible impact in countries where these solutions are needed most. Beyond her global contributions, Dr Elouafi’s openness and dedication to supporting students like Veronika reflect her belief in empowering the next generation of changemakers.

Dr Elouafi's words align with the Laidlaw value of being #Good and the Oxford Character Project Leadership Virtue of #Justice. Being good means aiming to improve the world, regardless of the field you are operating in. Justice means acting in a socially responsible way as a leader.  

A Call to Reflect 

We invite you to reflect on Ismahane Elouafi's powerful leadership insights. Share your thoughts in the comments: 🌱 How can science and leadership work together to create systems that benefit the most vulnerable?

Explore Our Scholars' Work in Agriculture and Food Security: 

⚡Zora deRham - Gender and Climate Smart Agriculture: Solutions in a Rural Setting 

⚡Erick Kithinji Muriungi - EFESS: Development of External Food Environment Surveillance Systems Using a Tele-Cohort of Informal and Formal Food Vendors in Two Secondary Cities in Kenya 

⚡Eli Newell - Bionutrient Circularity in Lake Victoria Basin