Vanessa Hok

Vanessa Hok headshot

Hubert H. Humphrey Fellow, 2023-24

  • Home country: Suriname
  • Specialization: Food Science; Application of sustainable agricultural practices to mitigate climate change effects in the Upper Suriname River Area
  • Current role: Assistant Researcher - Tropenbos Suriname
  • Education: Anton de Kom University of Suriname - Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Production (orientation agro-processing); University of the People - Master of Business Administration in General Management
  • Connect: vmh39 [at] cornell.edu (Email) | LinkedIn
  • Pronouns: She/Her

Vanessa Hok is an Assistant Researcher at Tropenbos Suriname, actively engaged in sustainable agricultural development projects in the Brokopondo and Sipaliwini districts of Suriname. Her work centers around close collaboration with local tribal communities who heavily rely on agriculture to support their families, but face challenges due to prolonged droughts or flooding that significantly impact their livelihoods. Vanessa’s work is aimed at applying climate-smart practices in order to assist these communities in mitigating the effects of climate change.

Prior to her current role, Vanessa worked as a Lecturer and Course Manager, overseeing student internships in the Food Technology department at the Polytechnic College Suriname. Vanessa earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Production with a focus on agro-processing from the Anton de Kom University of Suriname and has recently completed her Master of Business Administration in General Management. She also has professional experience in research related to processed agricultural products, product development, food microbiology, food safety, quality and sanitation.