Andrea Zick is a doctoral researcher at the UK Food Systems Centre for Doctoral Training, specializing in food systems transformation with a focus on net-zero strategies and carbon reduction in menus. Her research explores how chefs and food businesses can act as change agents in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and food waste through menu innovation and participatory approaches.

She brings a unique perspective from her previous experience as a chef and her leadership in sustainability initiatives within the hospitality sector.

“I got involved volunteering with FEAST With Us when the OXO Tower Restaurant, Bar and Brasserie collaborated with them during the first Covid lockdown to distribute meals for vulnerable people in Southwark and wanted to continue the support thereafter. To me all the leading principles of FEAST with Us matter but if I would be pushed to choose it would be community building, because I believe every interaction, we have with others has the potential to impact their life. Therefore, ensuring we bring people together in a safe place for them to connect and realise they have more in common than they think is very powerful.”

Andrea is passionate about cooking, nature, yoga, arts, culture, and most importantly, connecting with people to drive positive change in food systems.