Margot van der Velden has dedicated her life to serving others and supporting communities across Africa and beyond. Through her many years with the World Food Programme, she contributed to efforts that have supported millions of people facing food insecurity and crisis.

The World Food Programme was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, recognizing its work to combat hunger and promote peace—efforts she was part of over many years.

Her path reflects both learning and commitment. She studied at Wageningen University & Research and earned her Master’s from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. She also attended Texas Christian University as a student-athlete in tennis, an experience that helped shape her discipline and perseverance.

Over time, she took on a range of responsibilities—from working as a nutritionist with Médecins Sans Frontières in Mozambique to serving in leadership roles across the World Food Programme, including in Sudan, West and Central Africa, and at headquarters in Rome. Most recently, she served as Regional Director for West Africa before retiring.

She continues to serve as a Member of the Management Board of the Kemper Foundation, supporting grassroots development in the Sahel, with a focus on expanding access to education for deaf children and strengthening their integration into society.

Throughout her journey, she has supported approaches that look beyond immediate aid, focusing on long-term resilience, dignity, and community-based solutions.

A reminder that lasting impact is built quietly, through service to others.