Our volunteer profile this month shines a light on Zita, who’s been involved with Bell House for a number of years. Zita is a chef and cookbook author by training and runs FoodFights, which is all about making healthy eating pleasurable and accessible. You may have seen her star in some of our videos on YouTube (take a look if you’d like a new recipe for vegetable curry or an apple galette) or attended one of her cooking workshops in person. Here she shares a little bit about what she does at Bell House and around Dulwich.
What is your focus as a volunteer?
Teaching cookery lessons to young and old, and giving participants the tools to create delicious dishes that are also good for their health and our planet.
How long have you been involved with Bell House?
Roughly three years, although Covid did put things on hold …
What do you do away from from Bell House?
I teach cookery at a local primary school and consult private clients, who would like some help with their diet or need some inspiration on how to cook more healthily. I love long walks in the park, going for a run, trying out exciting new restaurants, reading (especially food magazines and cookery books!), and being creative. I am almost always testing new recipes and dishes, and we often have friends over for meals to spread the love. I also enjoy cake decorating, although I don’t have a sweet tooth at all.
How long have you lived in the area and what drew you here?
We moved to Dulwich (from Camberwell) in 2015, because we loved the fact that there is such a high concentration of green space. At times it feels like we do not live in a big city and yet, we have access to all the amazing things that London has to offer.
What is your favourite thing to do in and around Dulwich?
The Woods, the parks, cycling everywhere, visiting the Dulwich Picture Gallery, time spent at Bell House, the Dulwich Library, the bookshops.
What do you think you bring to Bell House as a volunteer and what do you get out of it?
It is my absolute passion to share my knowledge of healthy cooking with as many people as possible!
What is the best project or event you’ve been involved with at Bell House?
Ah, I couldn’t possibly choose. But I did attend a talk by Elaine of The Parent Practice one year that left a lasting impression on me and made me reevaluate my parenting style.
What are you working on now or what have you been working on recently?
Lots of fun workshops for Bell House, including a Halloween and Christmas themed one!
Are there any forthcoming projects, events or initiatives that you are particularly excited about?
I can’t wait to have a go in the Pottery Studio when it is up and running!