Overweight and obesity are increasingly affecting children and adolescents in Quito, the capital of Ecuador. A decade ago, nearly 30% of school-age children and 26% of adolescents faced these issues (ENSANUT, 2012). Today, the situation persists: 35% of children aged 5-10 and almost 30% of teenagers aged 11-19 are affected (Ministry of Health, 2022). These figures underline the urgent need to improve the school food environment and the quality of meals offered to children. [

In this context, Quito's food system presents a unique opportunity to advance sustainability by addressing interconnected challenges related to children's nutrition, food loss, and the limited involvement of local producers in school supply chains. Strengthening these connections can improve children's access to healthy food while building more resilient local economies.

Two young entrepreneurs are turning this vision into reality: Steve Hidalgo and Patricia Cruz. Steve runs a school kiosk and restaurant in Nanegalito, north-western Quito, offering healthier meals sourced from local producers. Patricia, an agroecological farmer in Atahualpa, north-eastern Quito, cultivates gulupa, a nutrient-rich fruit from the passion fruit family. Her work expands nutritious food options for local markets and school feeding initiatives.[HV2.1]

Both began their entrepreneurial journeys in a context where stable employment opportunities for young people are increasingly scarce. By engaging in food system initiatives linked to school nutrition, they are creating livelihoods for themselves while contributing to healthier diets and stronger local food systems.

"My family's idea is to have our own business, so we don't have to work for others. We have the resources and ideas to create our own venture and support each other. Today, five members of my family are involved, including my uncles, aunts, and cousins," adds Patricia Cruz, an agroecological entrepreneur.