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As part of International Development Week 2025, Dalhousie Agricultural Campus, in collaboration with the Colchester Food Network, hosted an exciting international cooking class at the Truro Fire Service. This free event took place on February 7th, offering participants a chance to explore diverse culinary traditions while learning about global and local food security and sustainability.

International Development Week (IDW) is a dedicated time to highlight the contributions of individuals and organizations in addressing global challenges and fostering global citizenship. Each year, IDW aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to promote cooperation and action towards a better world. The 2025 theme, "Cooperation for a Sustainable Future: Marking 35 Years of IDW," emphasizes the importance of working together to achieve the SDGs, and in this spirit, Dal AC International set a goal to create an event in pursuit of SDG 2: Zero Hunger.

This year's event brought together nearly 60 participants to experience the flavors of Indian and Iranian cuisine.

Attendees had the opportunity to watch live cooking demonstrations by Nidhi Anand, founder and owner of Meri Rasoi My Indian Kitchen Cooking Classes, and Ziba Mashkuri Najafi, who showcased authentic Iranian dishes. Nidhi, a passionate home cook, has been teaching authentic Indian cuisine since 2019, offering in-home cooking parties and classes where she shares family recipes and traditions.Learn more about Nidhi and her work at Meri Rasoi My Indian Kitchen Cooking Classes.

Alongside the delicious food, informative presentations were delivered by Grace Wenghofer, Global Education and Engagement Coordinator, and Shelly DeViller, Executive Director of the Colchester Food Network, emphasizing community efforts toward food security and sustainability.

The Colchester Food Network is dedicated to increasing access to nutritious and affordable food within the local community. Through education, advocacy, and collaboration, the organization works to reduce food insecurity and promote sustainable food practices. By supporting initiatives like Cooking Around the World, they help create a deeper understanding of diverse food cultures while encouraging meaningful action towards ending hunger.

The event was a fantastic success, with approximately 60 people in attendance, fostering cross-cultural connections through food while raising awareness about international cooperation and sustainable food practices. Thank you to all who participated and contributed to making this initiative a flavorful and meaningful experience!

A big thank you to the Atlantic Council for International Cooperation (ACIC) for providing the funding that allowed this event to take place. Stay tuned for more events from Dal AC International that celebrate global diversity and sustainability.