TUM students selected as EU Bioeconomy Youth Ambassadors

“Stand up for what you believe in!”

Katina Staleva: Applying to become an EU Bioeconomy Youth Ambassador felt like a natural step for me. I was motivated by the desire to better understand how the European Commission and its stakeholders work, and how bioeconomy policies are developed. For me, it was an opportunity to connect my academic knowledge with real-world policymaking and to ensure youth perspectives are part of the conversation.

Ivana Suver: I’ve long been concerned with how our future is shaped – and who gets to have a say in that process. The political decisions and measures taken today don’t just affect our generation, but all those that follow. That’s why it was important to me to speak up and be involved in these processes.

Katina Staleva: Every member of the BYAs inspires us through their dedication, creativity, and passion for their fields. Our team’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths: we bring together biotechnology engineers, biologists, bioinformaticians, environmental economists, agronomy engineers, and international relations experts – all contributing to shaping a comprehensive and effective youth voice for the bioeconomy. 

Katina Staleva: Our goals from the programme as EU Bioeconomy Youth Ambassadors are to promote a sustainable bioeconomy and elevate youth voices; raise awareness and inspire young Europeans; bridge EU policy with local communities by participating in key events and executing EU-supported projects. 

Beyond networking and representation, we are also planning joint educational projects. For example, producing bioeconomy learning materials for young people, newsletters, and live streams discussing policymaking and the latest developments in the field. 

Ivana Suver: It became clear that the focus now has to be on implementing concrete measures. That’s exactly what we expect from policymakers today: more decisive action.

Katina Staleva: I also found it especially valuable to listen to cross-sectoral stakeholders discussing concrete implementation pathways for the new EU Bioeconomy Strategy. One panel, for example, highlighted concrete steps toward long-term competitiveness, such as attracting foreign investors, strengthening venture capital to finance start-ups, simplifying approval processes for bio-based products, and mainstreaming biotechnology innovations by showcasing successful examples.

Ivana Suver: Even though we are confronted with a lot of negative news every day, we shouldn’t lose sight of the positive developments. Hold on to your hope and stand up for what you believe in.

Katina Staleva: “The bioeconomy can’t thrive in silence.” Educate yourselves, stay informed, speak up and practice active European citizenship!

Katina Staleva is studying Bioeconomy (B.Sc.) at TUM Campus Straubing. Growing up in Burgas, Bulgaria – between the Black Sea, sand dunes, and mountain landscapes – she developed an early passion for sustainability and environmental protection. As the current spokesperson for the EU Bioeconomy Youth Ambassadors, she works at the intersection of science, policy, and society, aiming to inspire young people to engage with Europe’s green transition.