Researcher / Curator
Hadeel Assali is an anthropologist and filmmaker currently pursuing a PhD at Columbia University in New York City. Her rice journey began when she learned from her elders that many traditional rice dishes were originally made with wheat. How did rice come to displace wheat in Palestine? This question led to many discoveries beyond Palestine, and in the process of her research, she met EunYoung, who continues to inspire her. Hadeel is a former engineer and comes from a family specialized in food science and agriculture. She is also the founder of the Houston Palestine Film Festival and has curated film events around New York City. Her rice research journey has brought her much joy and many amazing meals. It is far from complete; in fact, will it ever end?