GABRIELA: Leading with Love at Refettorio Merida

Refettorio is much more than a communal kitchen; it's a symbol of love, care, and community. Part of the Food for Soul initiative, Refettorio transforms surplus food into gourmet meals, creating an inviting space for those in need. But what makes Refettorio truly special is the people behind it, like Gabriela, who infuse every aspect of the work with heartfelt compassion. As the Head of Fundación Palace, which manages Refettorio Merida, Gabriela's perspective on food and community serves as a beacon of inspiration.

Meet GABRIELA

At the heart of Refettorio Merida is Gabriela, a woman whose passion for food goes beyond mere sustenance. For Gabriela, food is love, strength, and health all wrapped up in one nourishing package.

In Gabriela's own powerful words, food transcends mere sustenance. "Food is everything to me: if we don’t eat correctly, when we grow up we will have issues. Food is what gives us strength and health," Gabriela explains. For her, eating goes beyond filling the stomach; it's about how the ingredients are prepared and shared, and that, according to Gabriela, "is love."

A Network of Care

At Refettorio Merida, the food is delivered through a network of donations, involving institutions, private individuals, and even guests. Gabriela speaks of people bringing in bags of oranges to be transformed and shared, exemplifying the communal spirit of giving.

Gabriela's work at Refettorio has not only changed the lives of those she serves but also her own approach to food at home.

Refettorio Saturdays

"Since I got here at the Refettorio, everything changed at my own home. Every Saturday, it’s 'Refettorio Saturday': I open the refrigerator, take everything out and do a buffet. Nothing gets wasted," Gabriela shares. Her commitment to using and reusing all ingredients is a heartfelt invitation to others to do the same.

#Grundig and Food for Soul

As Grundig, we are honored to be an official partner with Food for Soul and to know and introduce inspiring individuals like Gabriela. Her insights, warmth, and love for food and people align perfectly with our values and mission.

Gabriela's story and her leadership at Refettorio Merida offer a beautiful insight into the soul of the Food for Soul initiative. Her understanding of food as a symbol of love, her community-oriented approach, and her personal commitment to reducing waste are lessons for us all.

Whether it's through "Refettorio Saturdays" at her home or the nourishing meals served at Refettorio Merida, Gabriela's approach to food is about more than nourishment; it's about love, connection, and care. Her "Food Saved Me" story is a touching testament to the transformative power of food and the way it can fill not just our stomachs, but our hearts as well.