I first visited the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada, in 2019 to curate dialogues that centred around the unique food systems challenges in Canada. There are complex issues to be tackled when fostering food systems that are beneficial for both people and the planet.

For me, being involved in these dialogues and collaborating with the Arrell Food Institute, led by the charismatic Evan Fraser, has been a transformative experience.  So I was delighted to hear, earlier this year, that I had been nominated to receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa, from the University of Guelph (UoG). I received this degree on Tuesday, 13^th June 2023: it was an unforgettable experience and I am privileged to have been awarded the degree.  It was the high point in a three-day visit to Canada.

Monday, June 12^th

On Monday I was invited by the Arrell Food Institute to curate a dialogue to shape a new project that is exploring the value of innovations in agriculture.  Could innovations foster high productivity and nature-positive farming systems that enable both people and animals to have better standards of living?

The dialogue brought together experienced practitioners from different parts of Canadian food systems, including producers of food for different value chains, advocates of agroecology, proponents of biodiversity in farming, and representatives from agribusinesses.  It was part of an ongoing series of dialogues designed to encourage the exploration of food systems from diverse perspectives, to investigate the potential benefits and trade-offs of emerging technologies within different food systems, and to assess what is needed to allow for the full potential of technologies to support a more sustainable food system.  The dialogues enabled me to appreciate the potential of targeted investments in novel farming systems, especially within farms managed by women from marginalised communities. This reaffirmed, for me, the significance and value of inclusive approaches to food systems dialogues.

Evan Fraser and David Nabarro during filming. Photo credit: Arrell Food Institute.

Later that day I was interviewed by Evan Fraser for a film about food systems and their transformation. As part of the film, I had an engaging interaction with two senior doctoral students from the University of Guelph, who asked me some hard questions: Emily Duncan, who is a geographer doing research on farmers’ use of technology for sustainable intensification, and Deus Mugabe, who is a Plant Scientist focusing on plant breeding, genetics, and international development. They asked about whether the 2021 UN Food Systems Summit prioritized collective over individual action, and were keenly interested in the potential for integrating systems approaches into scientific education.

In the evening Alice Tamblyn Raine, who is Director of Operations at the Arrell Food Institute, jointly with her twin sons Theo and Thomas, hosted me together with approximately 30 faculty members and students from all over the globe. I enjoyed learning about their different projects, interests, and aspirations.  They want to contribute to just, sustainable, and equitable food systems that emit fewer greenhouse gases and are resilient in the face of climate change.  It was an inspiring and stimulating evening, setting the stage for my graduation the following day.

Tuesday, June 13^th

David Nabarro and Chancellor Mary Anne Chambers during the graduation ceremony. Photo credit: Grant W. Martin Photography.

The graduation ceremony at the University of Guelph on Tuesday involved several hundred women and men.  I sensed the grandeur of the occasion as I donned the iconic red robe, and met up with University Chancellor Mary Anne Chambers and University President (and Vice-Chancellor) Charlotte Yates.  Chancellor Chambers enthusiastically shared with me the essence of Guelph University’s values, and how both systems thinking and interdisciplinary approaches come naturally to Guelph students and faculty.

Then it was time for me to receive my degree and address the graduating students. I am always apprehensive when giving talks to large groups like this and my nerves were especially active this day. My speech was an opportunity to share my views about the professional skills that are essential for navigating the uncertainties of the future. First and foremost, I underscored the importance of welcoming complexity, and maintaining an exceptional curiosity that drives us to explore, learn, listen, and seek inspiration from the ideas of others. I highlighted the transformative potential of connecting with diverse individuals, as it often leads to the discovery of innovative approaches. I suggested that there really is no alternative to operating collectively and collaborating with others when trying to make things better for all. Then I drew inspiration from the motto of the Guelph Athletics Teams – the Gryphons – and emphasised the importance of caring: the most important characteristic of all.

The graduation ceremony was a joyful and wholehearted affair. Each graduate ascended to the stage to be adorned with an academic hood and be captured in a forever photograph. Witnessing their radiant smiles, I couldn’t help but reflect on the immense amount of hard work and dedication they had invested throughout their academic journeys. It became evident that behind each smile lay a profound sense of accomplishment, reflecting the culmination of countless hours of effort. Throughout the ceremony, I watched as President Yates privately offered a few words of encouragement and support to each student as they graduated.  It was a nurturing environment, in which I sensed each graduate was determined to make a meaningful difference: it fostered a sense of belonging with everyone seeking to make a positive impact.

(From left) Evan Fraser, President Charlotte Yates, David Nabarro, Anne Arrell, Tony Arrell, Senator Robert Black Photo credit: Arrell Food Institute.

Subsequently, President Yates hosted a reception for the guests at the ceremony. I couldn’t help but admire her genuine concern for the health and well-being of all her students and faculty. I was honoured to be alongside the esteemed Senator Robert Black – with his impressive focus on sustainable agriculture and commitment to completing Canada’s soil survey.  I met with Tony and Anne Arrell, who are passionate champions for food security and sustainable food systems.  They are the benefactors of the pioneering Arrell Food Institute. Their tireless efforts exemplify the values of the university.  Also at the reception was Guelph-based multi-media artist Christine de Vuono whose work celebrates people’s needs for beloved care and lived beauty.  Evan Fraser, leader of the Arrell Food Institute, was as warm and welcoming as ever.  All these great people left a lasting impression on me: they are powerful and enriching change-makers.

Later on Tuesday, I was interviewed by members of the UK Science and Innovation Network from the British Consulate in Toronto. The interview was conducted by Kathryn Chen, the Head of Science, Innovation and Policy, who was supported by Lucy Whichelo, Media and Public Affairs Officer: they went into the story of my life, the significance of my degree, and work I am doing, at Imperial College, on the impact of climate change on people’s health and wellbeing.  Kathryn described her experiences when working with First Nations communities whose lifestyles are being upended by the impact of changing weather patterns.  I realized that some of these communities are close to Toronto and directly affected by the devastating forest fires that are burning across the country. As we unravelled the links between climate change and food systems, we realized the urgent need to face up to their meaning and implications.

Wednesday, June 14^th

On Wednesday I joined a seminar convened by the Maple Leaf Centre for Food Security in downtown Toronto on ways to help Canadian people tackle food insecurity and alleviate associated health burdens.  The programme was well organized by the Centre’s staff: my role was to be the facilitator and I found this to be truly captivating.  The focus was on the potential for prescribing food in healthcare settings to reduce the impacts of low energy and nutrient intake on people’s health.  The meeting explored options for integrating food prescriptions into federal, provincial, and local health policies.

To ignite the discussion we heard from Jennifer Reynolds, the Co-Executive Director of a group called Nourish.  She combines humility with courage: her passionate advocacy for universal food security as a moral imperative in Canada was awe-inspiring.  Another starting panellist was Dr Andrew Boozary, the Executive Director of the Gattuso Centre for Social Medicine at the University Health Network. As a primary care practitioner, he was unequivocal about the need to include the option to prescribe food as a component of health care when treating patients who are food insecure.  He explained why it is important to tune in to the social and economic determinants of health within Canada. We then had a set of 5 simultaneous facilitated dialogues on issues that need to be resolved if food prescribing is to be expanded. These harnessed the collective energy and ideas of the participants and used techniques with which we are familiar in the 4SD Foundation.  It was a constructive and collaborative atmosphere that allowed for meaningful progress in the field of social prescribing.

Big thanks …. 

A lunch meeting between (from left) Alice Tamblyn Raine, David Nabarro, Erin Doherty, Evan Fraser and Janice Leboeuf. Photo credit: Janice Leboeuf

I am super grateful to everyone involved in supporting me on this experience.  Special thanks go to colleagues from Guelph, particularly President Charlotte Yates and Chancellor Mary Anne Chambers, as well as Evan Fraser, Alice Tamblyn Raine, Erin Doherty and all the dedicated staff and students from the Arrell Food Institute.  The Agri-tech dialogue on Monday 12th June showed great promise.  Special gratitude to Erin Doherty who was my guide and support while I was in Guelph.

I am also particularly grateful to Lynda Kuhn, Sarah Stern and Merryn Maynard of the Maple Leaf Centre for Food Security, as well as all the participants in the convening on Food Prescriptions. The meticulous organisation at the event and the Centre’s warm hospitality made my visit a truly memorable and impactful experience.  Most of all I thank Faculty and Students at the University of Guelph for such a warm and powerful welcome.  I very much hope to stay connected to and collaborate with all of these amazing changemakers and their networks….

Receiving the invitation from the University of Pretoria to visit the campus and be awarded an honorary doctorate filled me with immense joy. It wasn’t just any invitation, but an opportunity to visit one of the world’s most prestigious universities—a renowned institution with a forward-looking vision, actively tackling the ongoing challenges in South Africa and across Africa.

David Nabarro (third from right) with Vice Chancellor Tawana Kupe (second from left) with Faculty and students. Photo credit: University of Pretoria.

Upon my arrival, I was warmly welcomed by my hosts, the Faculty of Health Sciences. Their impressive standing in academia was evident across the four esteemed schools: medicine, dentistry, healthcare sciences, and health systems and public health. I had the privilege of meeting distinguished deans, engaging in discussions with vice deans and chairs of different schools. These initial interactions affirmed that my visit would be an extraordinary two-day window to learn from an academic community known for its excellence and innovative approach.

During my visit, I explored how this institution effectively engages with diverse entities to foster collaboration and create meaningful impact. This university functions as a vast ecosystem, recognising the importance of the intricate connections that it must establish and nurture with local authorities, government bodies, and stakeholders across various segments of the healthcare system.

Photo credit: University of Pretoria.

Shortly after my arrival on the 11th, I enthusiastically participated in the first of two significant sessions, where I had the privilege of listening to different researchers sharing their work and collaborative efforts. These sessions provided a valuable platform for me to absorb their insights and contribute my own perspectives. The discussions were filled with lively exchanges, extending from noon until 5 p.m. A notable aspect was the informality that fostered the perfect atmosphere for open and engaging dialogue. This kind of setting is something I truly cherish and actively seek during my travels, particularly when I can take the time to embrace and appreciate diverse perspectives.

Given my particular interest, I had the privilege of engaging in organised discussions regarding the spread of zoonotic diseases (those transmitted between humans and animals), as well as the viruses and other agents responsible for infectious diseases and pandemics. Notably, the latter group played a crucial role in characterising the COVID-19 Omicron variant when it first emerged. Additionally, I gained valuable insights into the various strategies employed to control malaria, especially in anticipation of the changing incidence of malaria in Southern Africa due to global warming and climate change.

Photo credit: University of Pretoria.

One aspect that impressed me greatly was the concerted effort to integrate various scientific disciplines and foster interdisciplinary collaboration. This approach ensures that the knowledge generated is directly applicable to the real-world contexts in which people live. For example, the university’s commitment to prioritising the wellbeing and capacities of the people who work in health care, and working with healthcare systems as living systems – influenced, and managed by people – was evident throughout. This reflects the principles of living systems that are so important at 4SD Foundation. The experts in the University understand that achieving equitable public health outcomes, where priority care is available for those who need it, not just those who can afford it, relies on health systems that function well with people’s needs at the centre. In this university the faculty are prepared to think hard about what makes a health system make a difference to the lives and livelihoods of people. They don’t see hospitals as the primary place for improving public health, instead, they recognise the integral role that communities play in health systems.

Overall, my visit to Pretoria university helped me appreciate its dedication to cultivating a holistic and multidimensional approach to research and application. While I realized that I lacked expertise with the local context, I offered some advice on maximising the efficiency of policies and procedures, ensuring optimal resource utilisation, and striving for outcomes that align with the aspirations of the people. A key aspect I emphasised was the importance of recognising the unique identities of different groups and investing in relationships that promote open sharing of ideas and knowledge.

I was able to delve into the five characteristics exhibited by living systems leaders:

1. Hold competing perspectives simultaneously
2. See the whole system differently to its separate parts
3. Feel into the pace, rhythm and readiness
4. See the system in relationship to its environment
5. Meet people right where they really are

These discussions underscored the significance of identity, relationships, and the act of sharing openly — all essential for building long-term, trusting relationships. The exploration of these themes served as a rich source of insights that resonated deeply. It became evident that the principles governing living systems could be harnessed to navigate complex challenges and pursue meaningful change.

Photo credit: University of Pretoria.

One particularly captivating aspect of my visit was witnessing the university’s engagement in the process of reconciliation and forgiveness, as well as observing how the broader society is structured. Through various art forms and exhibits, they vividly portrayed this transformative process. As we collaborated, I realised that there was much to learn from their profound understanding of trust and the characteristics of living systems, which they actively apply in their endeavours.

To conclude the day, we were deeply moved by the inspiring story of Dr. Bongani Mayosi, a brilliant cardiologist who tragically passed away at a young age. Dr. Mayosi had a profound realisation that heart health is profoundly affected by one’s poverty status—a stark reminder that poverty breaks hearts. It reinforced the pressing need to address the profound impact of poverty on individual well-being and overall heart health. It was a poignant moment to be in the presence of Vice Chancellor Tawana Kupe, who had played a pivotal role in developing Dr. Mayosi’s narrative. His involvement highlighted the university’s commitment to recognising and uplifting individuals who embody the values and actions required to drive positive change.

Being immersed in a society actively engaged in the process of reconciliation added another layer of significance to the experience. It underscored the collective effort to heal wounds, reconcile differences, and forge a path towards a more inclusive and harmonious future. Witnessing their willingness to identify role models who exemplify the necessary steps for progress was truly remarkable.

Photo credit: University of Pretoria.

On the final day of my visit, I had the opportunity to explore the Future Africa campus, a hub dedicated to interdisciplinary research on the African continent. I was particularly intrigued by two key initiatives.

• The first centered around understanding the interconnectedness of animal, human, and environmental health—an approach commonly known as “One Health.” I engaged in enlightening discussions with Professor Wanda Makota, delving into the critical relationship between these aspects and the implications for overall well-being.
• The second initiative focused on food systems, and it was truly exciting to witness the enthusiasm and innovative approaches demonstrated by the postdoctoral fellows in their pursuit of interdisciplinary collaboration. We dedicated time to exploring practical ways of making these initiatives a reality, recognising the barriers of the systems in which they work.

Later in the day, I had the privilege of attending the graduation ceremony where I received an honorary doctorate (click here to watch a recording of the event). The atmosphere was vibrant, with academics and the community coming together to celebrate their enormous achievements. The Vice Chancellor delivered a powerful speech, and the Dean shared a statement, emphasising the significance of their milestones. Witnessing the graduates receiving their awards was a moment of shared pride and accomplishment.

As I prepared to depart and return to Geneva, I couldn’t help but reflect on the invaluable lessons I had learned during my time in Pretoria. I was deeply impressed by the country’s resilience in the face of significant ongoing changes and its unwavering commitment to fostering collaboration across different scientific disciplines, sectors, and stakeholders. The collective community’s dedication to driving meaningful change through partnerships was truly inspiring. It became evident that our expertise and experiences held value in supporting activities in Pretoria and other universities. It was a realization that we were not merely observers, but active participants to support the change.

Overall, my visit provided an opportunity to offer capacity-building support, learn from others, and provide valuable feedback. I was honoured to witnessed first-hand the value that academics found in embracing the principles of living systems in their respective journeys. The living systems approach offered a fresh perspective and practical tools that enhanced their work and enriched their academic pursuits and I look forward to accompanying their change.