Special Olympics UAE Honors Participants at 2025 Cooking Club

Special Olympics UAE marked the successful completion of its 2025 Cooking Club with a distinguished graduation ceremony at Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, celebrating the achievements of more than 60 athletes and caregivers. Over the course of five weeks, participants engaged in an enriching culinary program designed to foster confidence, life skills, independence, and sustainable, healthy living practices.

The Cooking Club, one of Special Olympics UAE’s most impactful health initiatives, aims to empower People of Determination by teaching essential cooking techniques, promoting nutritional awareness, and encouraging environmentally responsible habits. Delivered through five interactive virtual sessions, the program guided participants in preparing balanced meals, making informed food choices, and applying their newfound skills within their home environments.

Areen Abuhejleh, Head of Health Programs at Special Olympics UAE, emphasized the program’s continued success, stating:
“The Cooking Club is cherished because it offers so much more than culinary lessons. It creates a space where independence, confidence, and meaningful social connections thrive. Every session reveals the creativity and capability of our athletes when supported in an inclusive setting.”

The graduation event featured a dynamic 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 nutritious dish together, demonstrating the culinary progress they achieved throughout the program.

Reflecting on the collaboration, Chef Impiazzi shared:
“Hosting the Cooking Club is always a privilege. Each year, we’re uplifted by the passion and enthusiasm the participants bring. Seeing their confidence grow in the kitchen makes this initiative truly remarkable.”

This year’s edition also introduced a meaningful new experience—participants had the opportunity to serve their dishes to caregivers and enjoy a shared meal in a restaurant-style setting. This celebratory moment highlighted their sense of accomplishment and reinforced the spirit of inclusion, community, and pride.

Special Olympics UAE athlete and featured “masterchef” of the 2025 edition, Nasser Abdulla Alshehhi, spoke about his personal journey:
“Joining the Cooking Club changed my entire approach to cooking. I now lead in the kitchen, prepare meals for my family, and share what I’ve learned about healthy eating. This program has helped me become more confident, patient, and passionate about cooking.”

The ceremony concluded with every participant receiving recognition for their dedication and the progress they demonstrated throughout the five-week experience.

Now in its latest edition, the Special Olympics UAE Cooking Club continues to highlight the transformative power of inclusion—building confidence, nurturing independence, fostering friendships, and inspiring lifelong healthy habits through the universal language of food.