In May 2023, Instituto Ikigai orchestrated a
heartwarming local workshop and dissemination activity as part of the Culinary-Ode to Diversity Project in Zaragoza, Spain. Collaborating with a small local association hosting a Cooking Class for migrants, the event aimed to create a welcoming space for individuals from different countries, who recently arrived in Spain, to share their cultural experiences and stories. Held at the Centro Joaquín Roncal - Fundación CAI-ASC, the activity not only celebrated culinary traditions but also
highlighted the importance of social inclusion for those who have faced barriers to education and a brighter future.
The event revolved around the common language of food, using culinary experiences
to break barriers and foster connections among participants. The cooking lab became a
cultural melting pot, as Spanish trainers and migrants prepared typical dishes together. This interactive setting encouraged open dialogue and set the stage for direct testimonies that would contribute to the final performance of the project.
The day began with brief introductions, paving the way for a fun "BINGO Icebreaker
Activity." As participants mingled, they engaged in conversations related to words on the bingo cards, allowing them to share their experiences and build trust among one another. The activity stretched for over 40 minutes as everyone took their time to understand each other's unique stories and journeys.
From Colombian Arepas to Senegalese rice dishes, each participant's favorite food
held a piece of home and treasured memories. The participants, mainly from Latin America, poured their hearts out, sharing their stories of migration and resilience. Among them was Maria Pilar, who came to Spain from Venezuela following a personal tragedy. She moved here to Zaragoza from Venezuela following the death of her husband from Covid. Here she joined her married daughter with two children. Later, due to the political and social situation and economic difficulties in Venezuela, her other daughter, Jhenderly with her four children, also joined her and is now embracing the freedom and safety of living in a new country.
Rony, from Nicaragua, expressed his passion for cooking as a way to connect with people and create joy. According to him, food reminds him of his country and when he used to eat with his whole family. A view is also shared by Genaro, a Colombian man for whom food is a reminder of his home and his mother. Luz, a recent arrival from Colombia, cherished her mother's recipe for Arroz atollado, a dish that brought comfort and nostalgia. Malk, also from Colombia found solace in cooking rice with coconut and fish, a taste of home even in a foreign land.
Amidst shared laughter and heartfelt stories, the workshop revealed the similarities
between Colombian and Venezuelan cuisine, with Arepas emerging as a cherished symbol of both cultures. The day also welcomed participants from Congo and Senegal, further enriching the cultural tapestry. The cooking workshop offered more than just culinary delights; it provided an avenue for genuine connections and personal growth. Matisi, from Senegal, spoke passionately about rice’s significance in her culture, representing a dish that brings people together throughout the day. Marie, from Congo, initially reserved, eventually expressed her enjoyment of the activity, demonstrating the power of a shared passion for food.
As the workshop concluded, gratitude filled the air as participants expressed their
appreciation for the opportunity to connect, share and learn. They told us part of their stories, the bureaucratic difficulties they are facing, their search for a job here in the country, family members left behind in their country of origin, etc. The event allowed Instituto Ikigai to gather valuable insights and personal stories, contributing to the project’s final performance.
Most importantly, the activity underscored the urgent need to support migrants’ right to education and their journey towards social inclusion. So, in the spirit of unity and solidarity, let’s continue our efforts to break down barriers and empower every voice to be heard. Together, we can create a world where diversity is celebrated, and every person’s story is cherished.
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