Zawya is a socio-economic development project based in Zaouia El Abassia, a district located in a popular area in the northern part of the medina of Marrakech. The objective of the project is to create training and employment opportunities for a group of young residents aged 15 to 26. Through art, craft, photography and video workshops, young people are accompanied to rediscover and value the wealth and opportunities offered by their country.

    Work side by side with a master craftsman and learn the ancient craft techniques of Great Morocco

    Zawya is a socio-economic development project based in Zaouia El Abassia, a neighborhood located in a popular area in the northern part of the medina of Marrakech. The aim of the project is to create training and work opportunities for a group of young residents between 15 and 26 years of age. Through art, crafts, photography and video ateliers, young people are accompanied to the rediscovery and enhancement of the riches and opportunities offered by their country.
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    Craft Design

    Hamouda El Hachimi, sculptor of plaster

    Build fonoun zawya

    You, sculptor of future

    ArtexChange

    Filippo Gobbato, movie director

    fonoun Zawya

    Fonoun Zawya is a space dedicated to the young people of the neighborhood and to all those who want to visit it to learn about the activities of the project, discover job opportunities and deepen the traditional and modern techniques of Moroccan craftsmanship and design.

    The building, aimed to become Zawya’s first coffee shop located in Suika, is in the center of commercial activities of the neighborhood. In this area, you will find stores selling fruits and vegetables, spices, fresh herbs, a fishery, two chicken stores, ‘Hanuts’ (food and necessities), barbers, two bicycle and motorcycle repair workshops, and a soap factory.

    There are also four carpentry shops, a ‘Zellije’ (tiles) shop and two sewing shops. A few meters from the Suika are 8 riad hotels offering the typical Moroccan and excellent hospitality.

    You can support the cafe in the neighborhood Zawya by buying a craftwork with your words.

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    Activity

    The master of handicrafts is called ‘Maalem’, which translates to, ‘the one who knows how to do things.’ For over 500 years, Maalems have been carrying on their work and handing down their skills to the next generation. During summer vacations, children and young people attend the Masters’ workshop and learn through games, which is one of the many trades of Moroccan craftsmanship. Once they have completed their studies, they can choose to join one of the many schools of specialization and training in crafts of Morocco. Finally, once they are specialized in the crafts, they can practice their profession and eventually become a Maalem.
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    ArtexChange

    In the zawya neighborhood we invite artists and authors to spend a cultural and creative exchange period together with our youth and staff. You will be housed in our spaces and experience close contact with local artisans and people.

    Bring your vision and creativity and share it with young talent in the neighborhood. Transmit your experience and create your work together with us.

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    Manufacturing

    These are the handicrafts that the youth of the Zawya project and their Maalem make in the workshops of the neighborhood. they are made entirely by hand and without the use of any power equipment. Find out what techniques and materials you prefer, sign up for workshops or buy your own product to support local handicrafts
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