Association Zaouia · Sidi Yahya Ou Youssef
WHERE YOUR MONEY GOES
SIZE
2m 74cm x 1m 83cm x 3cm — 9ft x 6ft x 1in
WEIGHT
10000 g
MATERIALS
Cotton Thread and Wool
PRODUCT ID
#13637
The Beni-Ourain rug is used daily in the lives of local Moroccans. They are used for everything from bed covers to simple living room rugs. They can also be used for special occasions, like weddings. It is said that the women transfer their feelings into these rugs while crafting them.
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MEET THE MAKERS
Halima Imami
Halima was born in Sidi Yahya Ou Youssef, where she finished primary school. Her mom taught her how to weave at the age of 14. When both of her parents died, she moved in with her siblings. She now has many responsibilities at home. She joined Association Zaouia, because it's the only way she can earn money as a female weaver. She makes rugs, Handira, and Hanbal. She is also very skilled in coming up with new designs. She hopes to earn a better income to cover the medical expenses of her ill sister. She also wants to visit the city of Agadir one day, and buy a computer. Her favorite color is pistachio. In her free time, Halima likes to walk around and go to a special place called Tatrout.
Meryam Achaoui
Meryam is from Zaouia. She had a limited education growing up. She left school, like most girls in her village, because there was no secondary school close by. She was able to learn how to weave at home as a child. She enjoys making rugs and Handira. She joined Association Zaouia in 2012, as a way to earn an income. She hopes to be able to support her mother's Hajj to Mecca.
VISIT THE VILLAGE
Association Zaouia hosts visitors in their village — share tea, watch the artisans at work, and see the craft up close. Visits start at $17 per person, and most of it goes straight to the group.
Sidi Yahya Ou Youssef, Morocco · about 4 hours from Fez
