Local NGO NWAMI International Malta (NIM) has been honoured with three nominations at the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards 2025, in recognition of its groundbreaking work on Malta’s first educational zero-waste cookbook for children.

Launched in 2024 as part of NIM’s Foodwise Families Project, the book titled Foodwise Kids – Fun Zero Waste Cooking Adventures has been shortlisted in three categories at the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards 2025: Best Schoolchildren’s Cookbook, Best European Fundraising Cookbook, and Best Front Cover.

In addition to recipes, the book, also available in exchange of a donation, features interactive activities, eco-friendly tips, and practical guidance to help children build a strong foundation in sustainability.

Designed by 11-year-old Gael Ferrgalia Bustos, the front cover reflects the book’s dedication to celebrating and showcasing young talent.

NIM’s President Maria-Gabrielle Doublesin, has expressed her delight at the recognition, saying that it “underscores the significance of this project.”

“Our goal was to inspire children to embrace zero waste cooking while discovering flavours from around the world. This acknowledgement fuels our passion to continue educating young minds on sustainability and cultural appreciation through food,” she continued.

The Foodwise Families project, also organises workshops on zero-waste cooking techniques, fostering collaboration among individuals from diverse backgrounds, supported by APS Bank and Hive Digital.

Recognised as the ‘Oscars’ of food publishing, the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards acknowledges exceptional contributions to culinary literature worldwide. With participants from over 221 countries and regions worldwide each year, Gourmand honour the best food and wine books, printed or digital, as well as food television. The Gourmand World Cookbook Awards are also the only international competition in the sector. 

Local food writer and cook Pippa Mattei, had previously received the Best Entertaining Book in the World award from the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards for her second book Pippa's Festa, a a celebration of festive cuisine inspired by Maltese, British, and Italian culinary traditions.