Five-Week Program Empowers Participants to Build Confidence and Healthy Habits Through Cooking
DUBAI: Special Olympics UAE celebrated the successful conclusion of its 2025 Cooking Club with a prestigious graduation ceremony held at Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk. The event recognized the achievements of more than 60 participants and caregivers who completed a five-week program designed to build confidence, independence, and sustainable, healthy lifestyle habits through cooking.
The Cooking Club is a flagship initiative that empowers People of Determination by developing essential life skills, improving nutritional awareness, integrating sustainability, and building confidence in an inclusive, engaging setting. Over five virtual sessions, participants learned to prepare balanced meals, make healthy food choices, and apply their skills at home.
Areen Abuhejleh, Head of Health Programs at Special Olympics UAE, shared her thoughts on the initiative’s continued success:
“The Cooking Club has become one of our most beloved health initiatives because it goes beyond teaching recipes – it nurtures independence, social connection, and confidence. Every session highlights how capable and creative our athletes are when given the opportunity to learn in a supportive environment.”
The celebration included a live cook-along led by Sofitel’s Executive Chef, Russell Impiazzi, and Chef de Cuisine, Mazen Abdallah. With fresh ingredients provided by Spinneys, the program’s Fresh Food Partner, participants prepared a healthy dish together, showcasing the skills and knowledge gained throughout the program.
Chef Russell Impiazzi reflected on the impact of the collaboration:
“It’s a privilege to welcome the Special Olympics UAE Cooking Club back to Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk. Each year, we’re inspired by the passion and excitement the participants bring to the kitchen. Watching their confidence grow through food makes this initiative so special.”
This year’s edition also offered participants the opportunity to serve their dishes to caregivers and enjoy a shared dining experience in a restaurant-style setting, reflecting a spirit of achievement, inclusion, and celebration.
Nasser Abdulla Alshehhi, Special Olympics UAE athlete and Emirati masterchef of this edition, shared his experience:
“After joining the Cooking Club, my mindset toward cooking completely changed. I now take the lead in the kitchen, cook for my family and share what I have learned about healthy eating. The program has helped me gain confidence, patience and develop a lasting love for cooking.”
The event concluded with each participant receiving recognition for their commitment and progress throughout the five-week journey.
Now in its latest edition, the Special Olympics UAE Cooking Club continues to demonstrate the power of inclusion through food—inspiring confidence, independence, friendship, and lifelong healthy habits.
