Empowering Future Changemakers: Culinary Workshops Transform Food Waste into Sustainable Solutions in Abu Dhabi
In recent efforts to combat food waste and foster a culture of sustainability among the youth, Yasmina British Academy and Yas American Academy in Abu Dhabi hosted a series of impactful workshops. This initiative, which saw the active participation of 40 enthusiastic students, was facilitated by renowned chefs from Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island. It aimed to educate and inspire young minds on innovative techniques for repurposing surplus food—a pressing issue gained heightened significance in recent years due to rising food insecurity and environmental challenges.
The gatherings were more than mere cooking demonstrations; they served as a practical exploration of creativity and resourcefulness in the culinary arts. Students engaged directly with over 50 kilograms of excess fruits and vegetables—generously supplied by the national food sustainability program, ne’ma—transforming these ingredients into homemade preserves designed to extend their shelf life. This not only showcased the potential of what might typically be discarded, but it also embodied a crucial step towards fostering a more sustainable future.
“At Miral, we firmly believe in the transformative power of education to instigate positive societal change,” remarked Taghrid AlSaeed, Executive Director of Marketing, Communications & Events at Miral. “Our partnership with ne’ma and Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island signifies our collective dedication to inspiring students to seek alternative methods to mitigate food waste through interactive learning. This initiative aligns seamlessly with our corporate social responsibility commitments to enhancing both the environment and education within our community.”
The workshops transcended mere culinary techniques; they infused students with essential knowledge about sustainability and resource management. Participants learned not only the practical skills involved in making preserves but also the broader implications of mindful consumption and food waste reduction.
Khuloud Hasan Al Nuwais, Chief Sustainability Officer of Emirates Foundation and Secretary-General of the ne’ma Committee, emphasized the importance of engaging youth in sustainability efforts, stating, “Youth are not just future leaders—they are today’s changemakers. At ne’ma, we hold the conviction that instilling the values of resourcefulness and social and environmental responsibility at an early age is crucial to shaping a sustainable UAE. Our collaboration with partners like Miral and Hilton enables us to empower students through hands-on workshops, readying them to adopt mindful consumption practices while supporting the national goal of reducing food waste by 50% by the year 2030.”
The overarching goal of these educational workshops extends beyond food preparation techniques. They aim to inspire a cultural shift among the younger generation, encouraging not just awareness, but also action towards sustainability and community engagement. By nurturing these attitudes, the initiative seeks to cultivate a future where young individuals are equipped with the skills and insights necessary to champion sustainable practices.
Nader Halim, Cluster General Manager of Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, expressed his company’s commitment to social responsibility, saying, “At Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, our dedication to sustainability and community engagement runs deep. This collaboration allowed our chefs to interact directly with students, elucidating how thoughtful food preservation can convert surplus ingredients into something both purposeful and delicious. Observing the students’ enthusiasm and creativity as they explored innovative ways to repurpose food was immensely rewarding. By imparting practical skills, we aspire to nurture a more conscious and empowered generation that values food and environmental stewardship.”
The initiative stands as a testament to the combined efforts of educational institutions, corporations, and sustainability organizations in Abu Dhabi. By working together, these entities are not only addressing pressing issues of food waste but are also shaping a generation of environmentally conscious individuals prepared to tackle future challenges.
In conclusion, as food waste continues to emerge as a critical global concern, initiatives like these underscore the integral role of education in fostering a sustainable future. The proactive engagement of young individuals within their communities will undoubtedly contribute to a greener, more resourceful world. The collaboration between Miral, Hilton, and ne’ma exemplifies how dedicated partnerships can drive meaningful change, inspiring not only local communities but setting a precedent that may serve as a model for future sustainability efforts globally.
Tags: #UAE, #EnvironmentNews, #EducationNews