Dr. Gunhild A. Stordalen – Vision, Science, and Global Influence
Dr. Gunhild A. Stordalen is the co-founder and executive chair of EAT, a global platform dedicated to transforming food systems in ways that support human health and the planet. Recognized as a highly respected and influential voice in her field, she has played a pivotal role in convening diverse stakeholders to address some of the world’s most interconnected challenges. Her work sits at the intersection of science, policy, and leadership, shaped by a strong commitment to evidence-based action.
Trained as a medical doctor, Gunhild holds a medical degree and a PhD in pathology and orthopedic surgery from the University of Oslo. This scientific foundation underpins her ability to engage credibly with researchers, policymakers, and global decision-makers, while communicating complex issues in an accessible and compelling way.
From Foundation to Global Platform
In 2011, Gunhild co-founded the Stordalen Foundation together with her then-husband, Petter A. Stordalen. Building on this work, she went on to launch the EAT Initiative in collaboration with Professor Johan Rockström and the Stockholm Resilience Centre. Under her leadership, EAT developed into a recognized global voice on food system transformation.
A major milestone came in 2016, when Wellcome Trust joined EAT as a core partner. This collaboration significantly expanded EAT’s reach and impact, helping establish it as a central platform for aligning science with action on food, health, and sustainability. Through EAT, Gunhild has helped foster dialogue and cooperation across sectors that often operate in isolation.
Leadership on the Global Stage
Gunhild’s influence extends deeply into international policy and governance. In 2020, she was appointed Chair of Action Track 2 for the 2021 UN Food Systems Summit, where she led global efforts to promote healthy and sustainable consumption patterns. In this role, she built a broad and diverse coalition of stakeholders, leveraging EAT’s network and credibility to advance shared goals and practical solutions.
She continues to contribute her expertise through numerous boards and advisory groups. These include the UN Food Systems Advisory Group, the UN Scaling Up Nutrition Movement Lead Group, the World Economic Forum’s Stewardship Board on Food Systems, and the Stockholm Resilience Centre’s International Advisory Board. She also serves on the Champions 12.3 coalition of leaders and REQ Capital’s Advisory Board.
Networks, Recognition, and Advocacy
Beyond formal leadership roles, Gunhild is actively engaged in influential global networks. She is a member of the Africa Europe Women Leaders Network, an ambassador for Friends of Ocean Action, a member of HELENA, and part of the World Economic Forum’s Champions for Nature community. These roles reflect her broad commitment to sustainability, equity, and long-term systems change.
Her work has been widely recognized. She was named Environmental Hero of the Year by WWF Sweden in 2014 and selected as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum in 2015. She has been listed among the most influential business communicators in Sweden and ranked among Norway’s most powerful women by Kapital. In 2019, she received the UN Foundation’s Global Leadership Award for her contributions to food systems and was included among the most influential female leaders in climate and Norwegian agriculture. In 2022, she was named one of ELLE’s 100 Women Change-Makers Who Are Shaping the World.
Book Dr. Gunhild A. Stordalen for Your Event
As a published scientist and an engaging public speaker, Dr. Gunhild A. Stordalen is known for combining authority with authenticity on stage. Her presentations are grounded in science, enriched by global leadership experience, and delivered with clarity and conviction. She speaks with insight about food systems, health, sustainability, and the power of collaboration across sectors.
When you book Dr. Gunhild A. Stordalen for your event, you invite a speaker who brings depth, global perspective, and the ability to inspire meaningful dialogue and action. A Norwegian national with an international outlook, she continues to shape conversations that matter, leaving audiences informed, motivated, and ready to engage with the future of food and health.