Nadia Gilbert: The Power of Food, Storytelling, and Staying Rooted

In honor of Women’s History Month, we’re spotlighting incredible women in the food industry who inspire us with their craft, resilience, and passion. Today, we’re featuring Nadia Gilbert, also known as @nadiadiaspora—a Palestinian-American filmmaker, storyteller, and cook based in New York. 

Through her work, Nadia has built a deeply engaged community centered around food, identity, and cultural preservation. She seamlessly blends visual art with ancestral cuisine, using storytelling as a way to honor her heritage and connect with others. We had the pleasure of speaking with Nadia about her journey, the impact of storytelling, and how she’s continued her work amid the ongoing devastation in Palestine.

Finding a Calling in Food and Storytelling

What first drew you to food and storytelling? What was the moment that made you realize this is what you wanted to do?

“I knew I wanted to work in film & media because of the power of the medium to change hearts and minds. I wanted to become great at telling stories and creating positive influence. Food came into my life as a soul-survival mechanism, and I cooked because I loved it, and started producing my show on YouTube for fun. I realized what I did was unique and embraced the marriage of my love for visual art and my love for my ancestral cuisine!”

Building a Community Rooted in Identity

You’ve built a strong, engaged community around food and identity. What do you think helped you connect with people so deeply, both in person and online?

“I think I have always moved with authenticity, never trying to be someone other than exactly who I am—and people resonated with that! The internet is a wild place. I aim to create a place that breaks the patterns that keep us dissociated.”

Navigating Creativity in Times of Crisis

With the ongoing crisis in Palestine and the profound impact it has had on Palestinians everywhere, how have you navigated continuing your work? What has helped you stay grounded during this time?

“I have to. I feel a responsibility to speak up and to use the ancestral wisdom passed down to me to honor who my people are. Being placed in the location I’m in, there are people I am able to reach, and impact I can have. My faith keeps me grounded.”

The Importance of a Great Knife in the Kitchen

A great knife is essential in the kitchen. What do you look for in a knife, and how has using SEKKIN knives fit into your cooking routine?

“Everyone who cooks needs a sharp knife of great quality. It’s a chef’s most powerful tool. The SEKKIN Knife Set is hands down the best knife set I have ever used. I love how they feel, how they perform, and the values of the brand! I have ended my search. I love my knives so much.”

Advice for Women Preserving Cultural Food Traditions

For women looking to preserve their cultural food heritage or make a name for themselves in food, what’s one piece of advice you’d give them?

“Cook what you love, and share that love. Don’t worry about what’s trendy or what people think you should cook.”

What’s Next for Nadia Gilbert?

Any exciting projects, collaborations, or personal food goals you’re working toward?

“Yes, but they’re secrets. YouTube is coming back, and I’m doing a lot of writing. And I want to be in a constant state of learning.”

A Storyteller Who Honors the Past While Creating the Future

Nadia Gilbert’s work is a testament to the power of food, identity, and storytelling—not just as personal expressions, but as tools for connection and preservation. Whether she’s speaking up for her people, sharing traditional recipes, or crafting compelling visuals, her work leaves a lasting impact.

We’re honored to feature her in this Women’s History Month series and can’t wait to see what she creates next.

Photos by Olivia Hamilton.