Freelance
Reading/London, England
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Maha Khan is a Food Security and Development Master’s student at the University of Reading, with a passion for sustainable food systems, climate resilience, agriculture and cocoa. Her work combines academic research with practical experiences and science communication, exploring how global challenges affect farmers, communities and the food we eat. During her studies, Maha gained first-hand experience of agricultural development through field research in Liberia, where she explored the challenges faced by rural farmers and investigated the Systems of Rice Intensification. This experience strengthened her interest in the connections between climate change, food security, agricultural practices and rural livelihoods.
Maha also has a particular passion for cocoa and the future of chocolate production. In 2026, she created the Reading 100 Chocolate Bar using cocoa grown at the University of Reading. She followed the process from pod to finished bar, gaining hands-on experience while highlighting the importance of cocoa diversity, sustainability and climate resilience. The project attracted national media attention and showcased the potential for British-grown cocoa.
Alongside her studies, Maha has been involved in food-system initiatives and science communication, including her work as an IFSTAL student ambassador. She enjoys making complex food and sustainability issues accessible and engaging to wider audiences. Outside academia, Maha is committed to supporting charitable causes. In 2026, she completed her first marathon, the Irish Life Dublin Marathon, raising funds for Concern Worldwide after her experiences in Liberia. Maha is curious, resilient and driven to create positive change through food, research and community engagement.
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network weaver, community organiser, activist/advocate, strategist, youth-focused, facilitator, movement builder, researcher, writer/journalist, fundraising/funding, creative artist, campaigner/policy maker
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