Culinary Creativity Takes Center Stage at Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival: Samira Kazan’s Rainbow Hummus Demonstration Inspires Young Minds
In a vibrant display of culinary artistry and educational engagement, the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF) welcomed the Oxford-educated chef and social media sensation, Samira Kazan, to its annual program. From April 23 to May 4, 2025, at the Expo Centre Sharjah, the festival showcased an impressive lineup of over 600 creative workshops and activities, all united under the thematic banner “Dive into Books.” Among the various offerings, Kazan’s enchanting session titled “Levantine Cuisine: Lebanese Flavours Unveiled” stood out, captivating audiences of both young children and their parents.
Kazan, known for her Instagram account @alphafoodie, which boasts a global following for its visually striking and health-conscious culinary creations, took the stage with an infectious enthusiasm that resonated with her audience. During her live demonstration of rainbow hummus, she introduced her young viewers to the delightful array of colors and flavors that can be coaxed from simple, wholesome ingredients. With bowls of vibrant purple, green, and gold hummus before her, she deftly illustrated the concept that “Eating the ingredients that make up the rainbow gives you different vitamins, energy, and makes you live healthier and longer.”
The session was as much an educational experience as it was a gastronomic adventure. Kazan encouraged her young audience to embrace experimentation in the kitchen. “If you don’t like a combination, don’t be scared—experiment. Try different things,” she advised, underscoring the importance of creativity and fearless exploration in both cooking and life. Her culinary demonstration was a call to action, inspiring the children to engage with food in new and exciting ways.
In a world where nutrition often takes a backseat to convenience, Kazan challenged her audience to reconsider the relationship between food, health, and joy. As she combined ingredients like beetroot, carrots, basil, and avocado to create not just meals but colorful, nutritious masterpieces, she instilled a sense of curiosity in the children. “Every week, try a new fruit or vegetable,” she encouraged. “You never know where it might take you. I experimented by applying to different universities randomly, including Oxford – and I got in! Life rewards those who dare to try.”
Her approach resonated deeply, merging culinary tradition with an innovative spirit that encourages young chefs to view cooking as a joyful experiment rather than a meticulous chore. Kazan’s proclamation that “Food isn’t just about following recipes – it’s about creativity, discovery, and fun” encapsulated her philosophy, further motivating young minds to think beyond ordinary meals.
The timing of her appearance at SCRF is notably significant, as this festival emphasizes the power of literature and learning among young people in the region. This year’s theme, “Dive into Books,” reflects an ongoing commitment to fostering a love of reading and creativity among the youth, aligning perfectly with Kazan’s mission to empower children through food.
Aligned with the festival’s goals, Kazan’s vibrant demonstration engaged children in a manner that is both uplifting and educational. By transforming traditional dishes into artistic expressions, she not only highlighted the versatility of Levantine cuisine but also opened new avenues for thinking about nutrition and creativity in everyday life.
As the festival continues to unfold, events like Kazan’s demonstration serve as a reminder of the possibilities that lie at the intersection of creativity, education, and community engagement. They encourage a culture of innovation and curiosity in children, preparing them for futures that value exploration and personal growth.
The 16th edition of the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival not only champions the joy of reading but also celebrates the myriad ways in which learning can be integrated into all aspects of life, whether through the pages of a book or the colors of a plate.
Such initiatives not only foster an appreciation for literature but also empower future generations to embrace creativity and diversity in all its forms.
—
Tags: #BusinessNews #EducationNews #UAE #CommunitiesNews