The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has appointed Chef Willment Leong as its newest Goodwill Ambassador. This announcement comes at a critical time when an estimated 69 million people in Asia are experiencing crisis levels of hunger. The region is home to more than half of the world’s chronically food insecure children, underscoring the importance of the WFP’s mission to end global hunger.
In his new role, Chef Willment aims to leverage his culinary expertise and personal experiences to advocate for those in need. “WFP’s work is deeply personal to me – it inspires me,” Chef Leong stated. He recounted a poignant moment from a few years ago when he witnessed three children scavenging for scraps from a stranger’s plate just to survive. “Today, I stand ready to raise my voice, use my passion and platforms to support the vital work WFP does to bring food to those who need it most,” he added.
Commitment to Humanitarian Efforts
Chef Leong is not new to humanitarian work. He serves as the Chairman of World Chefs Without Borders, a global network dedicated to supporting individuals affected by natural disasters while raising awareness and funds for humanitarian aid. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Chef Leong and his teams provided hot meals to vulnerable populations in Bangkok and across the region. More recently, he mobilized chefs to deliver meals to communities impacted by typhoons in the Philippines and families affected by floods throughout Southeast Asia.
Beyond immediate relief efforts, Chef Leong is passionate about nurturing the next generation of culinary talent. He invests in training young chefs, offering them international exposure. His role as a judge on the Netflix reality series The Restaurant War Thailand allows him to mentor chefs, many of whom are street food vendors, while showcasing emerging culinary talents.
WFP’s Mission and Future Goals
The WFP expressed enthusiasm about Chef Leong’s appointment. Samir Wanmali, WFP Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, stated, “We are delighted to welcome Chef Willment as our Goodwill Ambassador. His strong voice will be crucial to rally support for the people we serve and champion innovative, partnership-driven solutions to tackle hunger and malnutrition in this region.”
The World Food Programme collaborates with governments, partners, and communities to deliver life-saving food assistance, strengthen supply chains, and build resilience so families can withstand future shocks. Chef Leong’s involvement is expected to enhance these efforts, drawing attention to the urgent need for sustainable solutions to hunger in Asia and beyond.
As the WFP continues its mission, the support and visibility brought by ambassadors like Chef Willment Leong will be essential in mobilizing resources and fostering a united front against hunger.
