"Rather Than Stop, We Moved Forward": Spreading Hope in Northern Israel with Food

In a new episode of Israel Unpacked: Myths vs. Reality, Chef Lior Lev Sercarz, co-founder of the Galilee Culinary Institute (GCI), shares his inspiring journey to bring hope and opportunity to northern Israel through food. Despite the looming threat of Hezbollah rockets, Sercarz remains committed to transforming the region with a bold vision: to elevate Israel's food scene while revitalizing the Upper Galilee.

Sercarz recalls the moment GCI was born, a dream that began over 25 years ago when he and Russell Robinson, CEO of the Jewish National Fund, shared a vision of change. "In less than three minutes, we shook hands and decided that we both are thinking about the same thing how to bring change to Israel through food," Sercarz says.

The project, however, faces significant challenges. The ongoing conflict in northern Israel has devastated communities, leaving villages abandoned. Yet, instead of retreating, Sercarz insists, "Instead of saying stop, we said go. We're planning for the day after, and hopefully, that day will come soon."

GCI isn’t just about culinary education it’s about creating jobs and rebuilding communities. “We’re adding more programs, more courses. When people come back, we want to offer them job opportunities, help farmers get back to their fields,” Sercarz emphasizes.

While much attention has been focused on southern Israel, northern communities have suffered in relative silence. “It is bizarre to drive for 20 minutes in the Galilee without seeing a single soul,” Sercarz reflects, underscoring the need for awareness of the hardships faced in the North.

Despite the challenges, Sercarz believes food can bridge divides in the diverse region, saying, “At the end of the day, we’re not so different. Whether you’re Jewish, Muslim, or Druze, the food we eat, the land we share it’s all connected.” GCI’s mission is to provide "a seat at the table for everyone," fostering dialogue and community through food.

The episode paints a picture of resilience and hope. As Sercarz affirms, "We’re not going anywhere. On the contrary, we’re here to stay and make it even bigger than what we planned before."

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