EP 46: Fighting Hunger, Changing Lives; Navyn Salem and Edesia

Crazy Amazing Humans

It’s unimaginable, but each year about 45 million children worldwide suffer from severe malnutrition — that’s nearly one in three children under the age of five. Thankfully, there is hope! We’re thrilled to introduce our guest, Navyn Salem, founder and CEO of Edesia. Edesia, a Rhode Island-based nonprofit, is on a mission to tackle this global crisis, having already saved over 25 million lives in more than 65 countries.

Her journey began with a powerful realization while watching 60 Minutes, where she saw firsthand the devastating effects of malnutrition—a preventable condition that affects millions of children worldwide. Inspired by her father’s Tanzanian heritage and the knowledge that so many children’s lives could be saved, Navyn set out to create an organization that could make a tangible difference.

Partnering with major organizations like UNICEF, USAID/USDA, World Food Programme (WFP), Global Child Nutrition Foundation, CORE Group, Navyn navigated manufacturing and logistics while raising the necessary funds to scale Edesia’s efforts. Edesia focused on creating life-saving products designed for areas where children are at severe risk. Their Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTF), like Plumpy'Nut, are peanut-based pastes fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. These treatments are revolutionary in malnutrition relief: they don’t require refrigeration, water, or cooking, making them accessible for distribution in even the most remote and conflict-affected areas.

Edesia’s workforce is as diverse as the communities they serve, including former refugees from 26 countries, adding a unique depth and resilience to the organization. Their shared commitment underscores Edesia’s role in empowering communities while fighting malnutrition. Navyn’s visionary approach has redefined the conventional models of humanitarian aid, creating Edesia as a social enterprise and focusing on impactful, sustainable solutions that can adapt to today’s challenges.

Feel the hope and inspiration as Navyn’s journey proves that each of us has the power to contribute to a healthier, more equitable world. Subscribe to the Crazy Amazing Humans podcast on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, our website, or wherever you tune in. Go find us, hit subscribe, and you’ll be notified about our latest Crazy Amazing Humans podcast episode. Follow us on Instagram for uplifting updates, behind-the-scenes content, and inspiration, and stay connected with our latest episodes.