A Taste of Belonging: Special Needs Teens Join Cooking Workshop

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A Taste of Belonging: Special Needs Teens Join Cooking Workshop

This summer, while our Cooking Up a Future students enjoyed their vacation, the Migdal Ohr Cooking School opened its doors to a very special group of young people: the teens of Makim – the “Brotherhood” Club from Migdal HaEmek.

With warmth, professionalism, and heart, Chef Ilana Saada volunteered her time to lead a unique and unforgettable cooking workshop. Thirteen participants with special needs, each with different abilities, stepped into the kitchen for an experience that was more than just about food – it was about confidence, joy, and connection.

Together, they explored the world of cooking: handling raw ingredients, learning kitchen skills, and preparing a delicious dairy meal with their own hands. At the end of the workshop, the group gathered around the table to share the food they had created. Each teen proudly wore a brand-new apron, generously donated for the occasion, and took home a personal recipe book—a sweet and lasting reminder of their day.

The Akim team summed up the experience in words that touched us all:
“It wasn’t just a cooking workshop – it was a life workshop. Seeing the light in their eyes, the pride in their achievements, and the joy of belonging is something we will never forget.”

Find out more about our Cooking Programme: https://migdalohr.org.uk/projects/#cooking-up-a-future

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