I would like to invite you into my kitchen to experience a special way of being together. The kitchen is the heart of the house, the place we all meet, and eating is one thing we all share. My CookingTogether projects are based on the belief that cooking is a bridge between people and cultures, a key to understanding and appreciating both. I wish to bring people together to share the experience of a focused and inspiring use of time, space and atmosphere.BACKSTORY Luisa Gorelli was born of Italian parents in Mogadiscio, lived the first years of her life in Somalia. She grew up and went to school in Rome. While living and working in various European countries she pursued her university studies graduating cum laude with a degree in Modern Languages and Literature.She has worked in various fields including cultural anthropology, language education, dance and theater management. Her personal and professional development has been supported and inspired by many different teachers and body/mind trainings, including Margaret Mead, Jerzy Grotowski, Peter Brook, Eugenio Barba, and Dru Yoga, Healing Tao, Non Violent Communication and Buddhism. COOKINGTOGETHER The idea began developing in 1994, and has its roots in Luisa’s dance/theater and language education work. The CookingTogether projects reflect her belief that each step and each individual contribution are of equal importance in every process. These projects are an instrument for encouraging creative interaction, and a mindful appreciation of the moment. To prepare and share a meal together is a wonderful and often surprising occasion for learning a language, a culture, and the pleasure of working together. All the different CookingTogether projects celebrate simplicity and authenticity through traditional home cooking. Each meal is unique, prepared with carefully selected, and whenever possible, organic ingredients. Making conscious choices about what and how we eat contributes to the development of sustainable approaches to the world, and transforms this basic activity into something as meaningful as it is delicious. PROJECTS Una Cucina Particolare This project, offered in English and in Dutch, is a unique and informal occasion to meet and celebrate. Una Cucina Particolare creates a focused and relaxed atmosphere in which the making and sharing of a traditional Italian meal becomes an occasion for appreciating the presence and contribution of each person. The intimate and collaborative nature of Una Cucina Particolare, makes it an excellent teambuilding experience for any kind of group – professionals, friends or family.Italiano in Cucina This is Luisa’s original concept for learning Italian through cooking and enjoying traditional Italian food. This effective learning experience is designed to involve and encourage participants in the adventure of speaking another language. Her approach is brain-friendly, engaging all the senses in a spirit of openness and collaboration. Italiano in Cucina provides an attractive and almost effortless way of brushing up or learning Italian. Celebration of the Light Since living in Sweden for several years in her twenties, the celebration of Santa Lucia has become part of Luisa’s life. This unique event takes place on the 13th of December to symbolize the coming of the light from the darkness of the long Nordic winter. This CookingTogether experience is offered during the months of December and January. It takes you into the magic world of Northern Europe to prepare some traditional Swedish winter dishes. In her own interpretation, Luisa creates a moment of reflection celebrating the ending of the old year and the beginning of the new. Conversazioni Particolari The aim of these sessions is to improve confidence and vocabulary through conversations in Italian. Luisa offers an engaging learning experience that supports people in becoming more articulate in their use of the language on subjects that matter to them. These sessions are not grammar oriented, most often they unfold as conversations about life and culture. OPPORTUNITIES Occasions There are many reasons for inviting friends, family and colleagues to be together. Since 1999 hundreds of people have celebrated birthdays, anniversaries, bachelor/hen parties, social club gatherings, children’s parties and all kinds of special occasions through Luisa’s CookingTogether projects. Teambuilding Private corporate enterprises and public organisations use the CookingTogether projects as an effective teambuilding tool. Among others, the following organizations: Bank Nederlandse Gemeenten, Lyondell Chemical Holland, Frisia Makelaars , Woningstichting Willibrord, Corinthe Companies, Gemeente Den Haag/Dienst Cultuur & Financien, Hivos/Humanistisch Instituut voor Ontwikkelingssamenwerking. Away from home CookingTogether projects are also hosted by cultural associations such as De Volksuniversiteit/Zoetermeer, The Activity Shop International Daycare Center/Wassenaar, and De Activiteiten Centrum De Bonte Kraai/Amsterdam Zuidoost. FEEDBACK