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Leran Minc
Driven by empathy and data to advocate for anti-hunger and anti-poverty policies
Professional Background
Leran Minc is a passionate advocate for social and environmental justice whose career reflects a commitment to positively impacting people and the planet. His journey started at a young age when inspired by a children’s book about the environment, he organized his peers to clean up their neighborhood pond. This early sense of responsibility and activism fueled his ambition to tackle some of the most pressing issues affecting communities and ecosystems globally.
Leran's professional life began in politics during his freshman year at college, where he served as the only paid staff member for a congressional campaign. His experiences during this time laid the groundwork for his deep understanding of policy and community outreach. As he progressed in his academic career, particularly during his tenure at American University, he distinguished himself as a leader in the anti-genocide movement. At a time when the conversation around genocide was gaining traction in the political arena, Leran's efforts were centered on promoting awareness and advocating for robust international crises intervention strategies.
As he transitioned through his academic and professional pursuits, Leran's interests evolved toward food security and food systems. He embraced his personal passion for cooking, which paired seamlessly with his dedication to social justice, particularly focusing on the role food plays within the community and global development. His diverse professional roles have solidified his position as a knowledgeable advocate in public policy, with an unwavering commitment to ensuring equitable food access.
Education and Achievements
Leran Minc's educational background is impressive, comprising a solid foundation in government and politics as well as international development. He earned his B.A. in Government and Politics from The University of Texas at Austin. This foundational knowledge equipped him with critical thinking skills and an understanding of legislative processes, which he further enhanced with a Master of Arts in International Development, specializing in Conflict Prevention at American University. His commitment to addressing global challenges continues through his academic pursuit in International Development and Food Security, where he combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications to tackle food insecurity and systemic inequalities in food systems.
Throughout his career, Leran has held multiple roles within Project Bread, a celebrated organization focused on alleviating hunger through policy advocacy and community initiatives. From his early days as a Campaign Associate to his current position as Assistant Director of Public Policy, Leran has been integral in shaping meaningful food policy strategies. His journey through the ranks at Project Bread showcases his ability to advocate for change and implement programs that enhance food security effectively.
Leran's dedication to social justice and food is also echoed through his previous positions, including his influential work at BRAC Uganda, where he contributed to impactful research and evaluation initiatives. His roles as a Culinary Instructor with Share Our Strength and Kitchen Manager at Pleasant Pops reflect his practical experience in the food industry, allowing him to connect with communities directly and mobilize resources toward food justice.
Achievements
Leran Minc’s professional journey is marked by several key achievements that resonate with his commitment to social equity and food security. As Assistant Director of Public Policy at Project Bread, he plays a pivotal role in spearheading policies that enhance access to nutritious food for vulnerable populations. His leadership in various public policy roles has led to the development of impactful programs that address food insecurity and raise awareness about nutrition across different communities.
His work in the anti-genocide movement displayed remarkable initiative and dedication during a critical period when awareness and policy interventions were paramount. Leran championed advocacy efforts that successfully mobilized political and community resources, contributing to a movement that seeks to protect and prevent the atrocities of genocides.
Leran’s involvement in grassroots activities emphasizes his commitment not only to advocacy but also to direct community engagement. Whether leading campaigns, consulting on initiatives, or teaching culinary skills to empower individuals, Leran continues to inspire others in his pursuit of social justice, making a profound impact in every role he undertakes. His passion for food paired with his policy expertise uniquely positions him to influence both local and global discourses surrounding food justice and security.
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