Imene Ismail Jedidi

Born in Hammamet, in the heart of Tunisia’s Cap Bon region, I grew up surrounded by the sea, citrus orchards, local traditions, and a rich cultural heritage. I was especially inspired by the mothers and grandmothers who preserved ancestral knowledge and passed it on through cooking, celebrations, and everyday moments of sharing. They taught us that food is not only about recipes, but also about memory, identity, hospitality, and bringing generations together.

Originally trained as a computer engineer and a digital education specialist, I spent many years working in higher education. My experiences across Tunisia and abroad helped me appreciate the diversity of cultures and the importance of preserving local heritage.

My passion for sharing the hidden treasures of Hammamet—its agriculture, traditions, crafts, and gastronomy—naturally led me toward cultural heritage work. Over time, I became involved in cultural mediation, heritage promotion, and sustainable tourism. In 2018, I co-founded the Association of Hammamet Ambassadors to help safeguard and transmit local traditions, crafts, and culinary heritage.

Through my work across the Cap Bon region, I have met inspiring women and men deeply connected to their land and proud to share their knowledge, stories, and hospitality. For me, the gastronomy of Cap Bon reflects the generosity, diversity, and authenticity of its people, and I am proud to share this living heritage with the world.

Imene Ismail Jedidi