Hosted by the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Antwerp, this event explores the power of food as a vehicle for identity, belonging, and social connection.
Prof. Charlotte De Backer will open the evening with a brief talk on food in the social sciences — from culinary diplomacy to the ways in which food shapes social structures and helps us communicate who we are and where we belong.

She will be followed by Palestinian-British author and storyteller Diline Abushaban, who will share stories of grief, joy, and resilience. Drawing from her newly published book The Gaza Healing Cookbook, Diline will speak about the role of mindful cooking in nurturing hope, spreading healing, and sustaining a deep connection to Palestine from anywhere in the world.

Also Nour Elnono will talk about her acts of social gastronomy. Nour shares her culture through Palestinian cooking workshops. Every dish she prepares carries history, resilience, and a deep connection to the land. Through Nour Kitchen, she introduces Palestinian cuisine to new audiences and uses food to build community. What started as a way to support her family in Gaza has grown into a movement that keeps Palestinian heritage alive, making it accessible and meaningful to people everywhere. Through her non-profit organization Nour Foundation, she delivers humanitarian aid to the most vulnerable communities in Gaza.

You’ll leave with food for thought — and stories worth telling over and over again.

Diline Abushaban is a Palestinian-British author and storyteller living in Scotland. For more than 10 years, Diline worked in the third sector on supporting different causes including social justice, anti-racism and climate change. Being passionate about healing and inspiring people to live  mindfully, she currently works as a healing mentor and a podcast host of 'In-Peace'. Diline self-published two books including; 'Feel Heal Love' and 'Gaza Healing Cookbook'.

Friday November 28 2025, 5:30 PM - Aula s.C.003

Entrance is free; online registration is required. 

After the lecture, the University of Antwerp warmly invites you to a shared meal in support of the people in Gaza. For this dinner event, spaces are limited, and a separate online registration is required. Dinner is offered by the university, but we kindly ask all guests to make a donation to Nour Kitchen for Gaza. The suggested contribution is €25 per person — yet every amount, small or large, is deeply appreciated. If €25 feels too much right now, please give what you can. If it feels within reach, consider adding a little extra, in solidarity with those who cannot.

Donate via: https://chuffed.org/project/121517-nour-kitchen-for-gaza and don't forget to register online for the dinner!