“It felt very good being together. I really enjoyed cooking with the women from Syria and learning about their food and their country”
Agnes
Food is the universal connector. It breaks down barriers and brings people together. When we gather to eat, and when we cook for others, we are sharing ourselves, our heritage, our humanity and our love.
This belief was at the core of our Recipes for Connection workshops. The project brought together older women from migrant communities, some of whom were from war-torn countries, to share their memories and stories from their home countries, and to cook and share these important recipes and the stories that came with them.
The project helped older women to connect with others from different countries, to learn each other’s cultures, and to develop inter-cultural friendships in a safe and supportive space.
This project celebrated the older women’s cultures and valued their knowledge. Through the process of storytelling and cooking together, the women made new friendships and felt validated.
The delicious recipes and stories were collated into a book and shared with everyone, it is an important document that speaks to the resilience of older women.
It features women like Nadah (right), who shared her recipe for Halawet El Jibn, a traditional Syrian dessert. It was creamy and delicious, with a hint of orange blossom and rose petal, and finished with a pistachio crumb!
Celebrate Flavours, Stories & New Friendships
Get your copy of 'Recipes for Connection' and discover the joy of cooking with heart.
Preview: Flip through the recipes using the left and right arrows or swipe if you are on a touch device.
Thank you!
To all the women who participated thank you for opening your recipe books, your memories, and your hearts to us. In every dish you prepared and every story you told, you offered far more than ingredients or instructions. Through your recipes, you invited us into your lives. You reminded us that food is more than sustenance – it is culture, identity, survival, and joy. It is a way of saying I remember, I belong, I care.
You’ve helped build bridges across cultures, created new friendships, and reminded us of the power of gathering, sharing, and listening. We are honoured by your generosity. We are richer for your contribution. And we are deeply grateful for the beauty and strength you bring to our communities.
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