Vegetarian Action
Gili Kieffer: Inspiring Vegan Indulgence
by Hannah Greene
If anyone claims that vegan food is boring or gross, just send them to one of Gili Kieffer's cooking classes! Her delectable pastries prove how indulgent and exciting a vegan diet can be.
Born and raised in Israel, Gili became vegetarian as a teenager and vegan eight years ago. She earned a certification in vegan cooking and pastry and now teaches cooking classes in Pennsylvania and Maryland. On September 22, 2018 she opened Tivoni Vegan Kitchen and Bakery, at 805A Roherstown Rd., Lancaster, PA. Through this and other subtle activism, she has dedicated her life to educating and connecting people via compassionate eating. Gili offers cooking demos, teaches group and private vegan cooking classes, and maintains a popular vegan blog.
This talented chef volunteers weekly to prepare vegan meals at the Boys & Girls Club. She tries to support the children as a positive influence and answer their questions about the impacts of dietary choices.
In her efforts to connect people of different backgrounds, she organizes a rapidly growing vegan Meetup group dedicated to judgment-free support. The group holds events to support farm sanctuaries and other animal rights causes, as well as holiday activities on Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
Rather than trying to convert others by "disgust or guilt," Gili offers delicious, wholesome vegan food that makes people excited about all the possibilities for vegan eating from breakfast to dinner to dessert.
"My goal is to make a difference and influence and inspire. I believe that we vote with our money, and what better way than offering a completely vegan and animal product-free place for locals to eat?" she said.
Gili further helps others by offering guidance with the transition to veganism. "I don't believe in forcing lifestyle choices on people, so I try to encourage them by introducing foods and talking openly about my lifestyle."
Gili's hope for vegans is that we recognize "we are all in a different place in our journey and we are trying our best." Regardless of why someone goes vegan — for animal rights, the environment, personal health, or any other reason — she applauds their choices.
"I see some vegans judging... it's not the way I choose to go about it," she said. Embodying the vegan mindset, Gili leaves us with these words of wisdom: "I'm a big believer in compassion and kindness in any form. Judging others will not lead to change — be kind."
You can find Gili's mouthwatering recipes at veganfoodie.kitchen/recipe and more about her restaurant at www.tivonivegan.com
Hannah Greene interned at The Vegetarian Resource Group during the 2018 summer.
