Rooted in Community, Driven by Purpose: Meet Ivanoei Carrasco, YPARD LAC’s Strengthening and Sustainability Coordinator

For many young professionals working in rural development, the journey begins in a classroom or through a professional opportunity. For Ivanoei Carrasco, it began much earlier with family, identity, and a deep connection to the land. Today, Ivanoei serves as the Strengthening and Sustainability Coordinator for YPARD Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), supporting the growth and long-term sustainability of one of the region's most dynamic youth networks in agrifood systems. His work focuses on strengthening national chapters, fostering regional collaboration, and creating pathways for greater youth engagement and impact across Latin America and the Caribbean.

Yet behind his professional achievements lies a personal story rooted in rural communities. Born into an Aymara family from Puno and a Quechua family from Huánuco, Ivanoei grew up witnessing firsthand the realities, challenges, and opportunities of agricultural life. Those early experiences shaped his understanding of rural development and continue to influence his work today. “My interest in rural development and sustainability stems from my family roots. Since childhood, I have witnessed my family’s agricultural activities. That connection is part of my sociocultural identity as a professional and a Peruvian citizen.”

His passion for community development led him to pursue a degree in Communication for Development at the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru, followed by postgraduate studies in project management and social management. He is currently advancing his expertise through a Master’s degree in Social Enterprise Management for Innovation and Local Development. Ivanoei's journey with YPARD began in 2020 after discovering a volunteer call from the YPARD Peru Chapter on social media. What started as a volunteer opportunity quickly evolved into a leadership journey. Over the years, he contributed to communications, programme implementation, mentorship, project coordination, and eventually served as YPARD Peru's Country Representative.

These experiences not only strengthened his leadership skills but also deepened his commitment to empowering rural youth and supporting sustainable agrifood systems. Now serving at the regional level, Ivanoei is focused on helping YPARD chapters thrive. His role centers on expanding YPARD's reach, supporting chapter leadership, strengthening coordination across countries, and developing initiatives that contribute to the network's long-term sustainability.

For him, sustainability is not simply about maintaining an organization, it is about building stronger connections among young people, communities, and institutions. “I hope to contribute as a facilitator among YPARD chapters, teams, and key stakeholders. My goal is to strengthen our chapters and help expand our impact for the benefit of young people and communities.” At the heart of his vision is a belief in the transformative power of youth leadership. He sees young people as drivers of innovation, capable of shaping more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable food systems.

“We, as young people, are catalysts for the changes our communities and regions need. We have the energy, creativity, and innovation to make an impact at the local, national, and international levels.”

As YPARD Latin America and the Caribbean continues to grow, Ivanoei's leadership represents a commitment to strengthening youth networks, amplifying rural voices, and creating opportunities for young professionals to lead meaningful change. His journey  from rural roots in Peru to regional leadership within YPARD, demonstrates how lived experience, dedication, and a passion for community development can help shape a more sustainable future for agrifood systems across the region.

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