Dr. Tawanda Muzhingi is a global leader at the nexus of nutrition science, food innovation, and sustainable development. With a strong academic background and extensive experience, he plays a pivotal role in shaping global food and nutrition policies, with a recent focus on advancing plant-based food systems for the benefit of people, the planet, and animal welfare. As Director of International Programs for the Plant Based Foods Association (PBFA), Dr. Muzhingi spearheads initiatives aimed at promoting the growth of plant-based foods worldwide. Prior to this role, he served as an Innovation Advisor with the Food and Agriculture practice of Research Triangle Institute (RTI) International’s Innovation Advisors Group, and held various positions within the CGIAR System, focusing on nutrition-sensitive agriculture, crop biofortification, and market systems development. With a Ph.D. in Biochemical and Molecular Nutrition and an M.S. in Food Policy and Applied Nutrition from Tufts University, Dr. Muzhingi's expertise is well-grounded. He also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition from the University of Zimbabwe and serves as an adjunct professor at North Carolina State University. Additionally, he is the President of the Dogwood IFT section in North Carolina and co-leads the North Carolina Food Coalition Series.