Nina Mesiranta, a distinguished scholar from Tampere University in Finland, brought her expertise in sustainability and consumer behavior to the IN2FOOD Program, an international initiative supported by Erasmus+, the CBHE Program (Capacity Building in Higher Education) of the European Union, and Marriott International. As a key contributor to the program, Nina played a vital role in promoting innovative approaches to food waste management while fostering collaboration across disciplines and cultures.
Nina’s involvement in the program included leading Design Thinking workshops, mentoring students in group discussions and projects, and facilitating food waste investigations. Her research-driven and hands-on approach helped participants understand the complexities of food sustainability and encouraged them to think creatively about practical solutions. Through her guidance, participants gained valuable insights into the consumer dynamics and systemic factors driving food waste.
The Erasmus+ and CBHE Program provided the framework for Nina’s contributions, enabling her to collaborate with partner institutions such as BINUS Bandung, Ghent University, Hotelschool The Hague, and Universitas Parahyangan. Her participation strengthened the program’s academic rigor, enhancing knowledge exchange and fostering global partnerships. Nina’s ability to integrate European best practices with local insights enriched the learning experience, equipping participants with a global perspective on sustainability.
Nina also participated in field visits to Marriott Hotels and Resorts, where participants observed real-world applications of sustainable practices in the hospitality industry. Her expertise added depth to these visits, helping participants connect theoretical concepts with practical strategies to reduce food waste. Nina’s ability to make these connections empowered participants to envision impactful changes within their own contexts.
Beyond academics, Nina actively engaged in the program’s cultural activities, fostering mutual understanding and cross-cultural exchange among international and local participants. Her involvement in the International Interdisciplinary Conference further underscored her commitment to advancing global dialogue on sustainability and consumer behavior.
Nina Mesiranta’s contributions to the IN2FOOD Program highlighted the transformative power of education and international collaboration. Her dedication to sustainability and her ability to inspire and engage participants left a lasting legacy, equipping them to tackle food waste challenges and contribute to a more sustainable future.