The complexity of nutrition challenges in developing Southeast Asian countries demands solutions that go beyond programs and policies—placing equal emphasis on individuals who can serve as catalysts for change. To enable nutrition professionals to take on more active roles in policy formulation, innovative program implementation, and strategic partnership building, it is essential to strengthen their leadership capacity, communication skills, and resilience in the face of adversity. Building strong leaders in the field of nutrition is a vital capacity-building strategy to bridge critical gaps in addressing these pressing issues.

This approach aligns closely with SEAMEO RECFON’s vision, mission, and strategic plan, particularly its commitment to advancing human resource development across the Southeast Asian region. In response to this need, SEAMEO RECFON initiated the Southeast Asian Nutrition Leadership Program (SEANLP) in 2002. Modeled after the European Nutrition Leadership Program (ENLP) and part of the Global Nutrition Leadership Platform alongside ENLP and the African Nutrition Leadership Program (ANLP), SEANLP aims to empower nutritionists and related professionals to become influential agents of change in the fields of nutrition, food, and health.

Since its inception, SEANLP has nurtured a growing network of alumni across Southeast Asia who have made tangible contributions to the development of nutrition-related policies and programs. However, after the 13th SEANLP in 2019, the program was temporarily suspended due to various challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic.

Amid growing and increasingly complex nutrition issues, the demand for capable and ethical leaders in this field is more urgent than ever. In light of this, SEAMEO RECFON is preparing to reactivate the SEANLP in 2025 through its 14th batch. This program will once again provide a vital platform for young academics and professionals to strengthen their leadership and communication competencies, expand their networks, and collaboratively design innovative solutions to improve nutrition in Southeast Asia.

General Objective

To empower young professionals and academics in Southeast Asia working in food, nutrition, health, and related fields by strengthening their leadership and communication skills, fostering cross-sector collaboration, and inspiring transformative action within their communities and disciplines.

Specific Objectives

1. To strengthen the leadership skills of nutritionists working in government institutions, research, and academia by enhancing competencies in areas such as teamwork and effective communication.
2. To establish a forum and professional network among nutritionists, serving as a platform for collaboration in research, program implementation, and policy development to improve human nutrition across the Southeast Asian region.

The expected outputs of this program are:

1. A cohort of trained participants equipped with leadership and effective communication skills in the fields of food, nutrition, health, and other related areas.
2. The establishment of a strong network among academics and professionals who can collaborate and contribute to addressing nutrition challenges in the Southeast Asian region.
3. Personal action plans for post-training leadership application in participants’ respective institutions or communities.

• Leadership concept (leading self, leading people, leading organization, leading change)
• Effective management (critical thinking, communication, negotiation, and advocacy)
• Application of leadership in the workplace

Interactive lecture, team building activities, group discussions and presentations, class dynamic management, newsletters development, and action plan development.

General Requirements

• Less than 45 years of age
• At least Master Degree holder
• Good English proficiency
• Submit Video CV on registration form

Role of the Mentor

The mentor will not participate in the training sessions. However, they provide moral support and act as a discussion partner for your personal and professional growth during and after the program. This support starts from the application process (featured in your video CV) and continues informally throughout the SEANLP 2025 journey.

Participation Schemes

1. Paid Participation:
   • USD 500 – For participants from academic or government institutions
   • USD 850 – For participants from industry or non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
2. Full Scholarship:Covers the full program fee, accommodation, and transportation.
3. Fee Waiver:Covers the program fee and accommodation; participants are responsible for their own transportation costs.