A two-part event to highlight food security concerns while promoting sustainability will take place this autumn.

The Food Justice Forum, a campaign group, said that on September 30 it will host a Thrift Kitchen Showdown at The Loren in observance of World Food Waste Day.

A spokesman for the group said in a statement: “This daylong event will focus on food efficiency, exploring how Bermuda can adopt more sustainable food practices.

“Young chefs, aged 15 to 35, will compete by creating innovative dishes from surplus ingredients, showcasing the role of the next generation in leading the charge towards a more sustainable food system.

“As Bermuda looks to reduce its environmental footprint, the competition encourages creativity and efficiency.”

The event will be followed on October 16 with a forum at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute, timed to coincide with World Food Day.

“This session will focus on the pressing issues of food insecurity, homelessness and mental health in relation to hunger,” the spokesman added.

“Panel discussions will bring together community leaders and experts to address the systemic causes of food insecurity and its far-reaching effects on the island’s most vulnerable populations.

“By fostering dialogue around these interconnected issues, the forum aims to inspire concrete actions and policy shifts.”

The Thrift Kitchen Throwdown is scheduled to take place between 11am and 8pm, while the October 16 forum will run from 5pm to 8.30pm.