Our online discussion centered on enhancing farmer-centred food security. Recognizing that 84% of our farms are smallholdings, yet the average smallholder farmer earns just £1.50 per day, the discussion emphasized the need for a paradigm shift towards a farmer-first approach. Key strategies discussed included strengthening local food economies, empowering farmers as decision-makers, and integrating gender equality and indigenous knowledge into farming practices. The forum highlighted the critical role of smallholder farmers in facing global challenges like climate change and advocated for policies and practices that support their resilience and productivity. This Insights Summary captures the essence of these discussions, underscoring the importance of strategic, inclusive approaches to bolstering global food security and farmers’ livelihoods.