Local Champions and Community Empowerment for Sustainable Food Security: A Social Studies and Geography Education Perspective in Semarang City

Abstract

Background/purpose. Food security has emerged as a critical issue amid rapid urbanization and the impacts of climate change. Although the City of Semarang demonstrates a relatively high Food Security Index, it remains vulnerable due to its reliance on external supply sources, land-use conversion, and climate-related risks. This study aims to examine the role of local champions as a strategy for achieving sustainable food security, with particular attention to the contributions of grassroots actors such as the Women Farmers’ Group (Kelompok Wanita Tani/KWT), Tourism Awareness Group (Pokdarwis), Family Welfare Movement Working Group (Pokja PKK), and Integrated Health Service Post (Posyandu). Materials/methods. This study employs a qualitative approach within a naturalistic–interpretive paradigm, utilizing data collection techniques such as observation, in-depth interviews, Focus Group Discussions and document analysis. The data analysis process is carried out through the stages of reduction, presentation, and conclusion drawing. Results. Local champions serve as key drivers in food production, nutrition education, local product marketing, and in bridging the food and tourism sectors. KWT focuses on optimizing the use of home gardens, the Pokdarwis creates new market opportunities through culinary-based agrotourism, the Pokja PKK promotes the diversification of healthy food consumption, and the Posyandu functions as an early warning system for nutritional issues. Collaboration and interconnectedness among these champions strengthen the local food ecosystem. Conclusion. A local champion–oriented strategy positions the community as the primary driving force, with the government acting as a supporter and facilitator. This approach evolves organically, fosters active participation, and remains sustainable as it is rooted in initiatives originating from the community itself.