A Journey of Empowerment for Women

The podcast episode, "Where to Find a Genuine Moroccan Rug and a Positive, Ethical Shopping Experience," features a conversation with Sarah, the host and guide mentioned below, in a live, on-site recording.

Introduction
Continuing our recent theme of shopping, tipping, and traveling safe in Morocco, today's blog post takes you on a virtual tour of the Akhnif Glaoui Carpet Cooperative. Situated just south of Ouarzazate, about 150 miles south of Marrakech, this remarkable boutique is a testament to the resilience and creativity of women weavers in Morocco. During Azdean's summer trip to Morocco, he had the pleasure of visiting this co-op and meeting the inspiring Sarah, who not only gave an insightful tour but also shared her own journey of empowerment. The women's co-op has had a tremendous impact on the local economy and women's self-sufficiency in the region.

The Akhnif Glaoui Carpet Cooperative
At the heart of Morocco's rich cultural heritage lies the art of carpet weaving. Akhnif Glaoui was established in 2007 as an initiative to provide a platform for women weavers to showcase their intricate creations, and control its sales and distribution. What sets this co-op apart is its groundbreaking approach to empowering women economically. Unlike traditional practices, where men often sell the rugs at higher prices without benefiting the weavers directly, the Akhnif Glaoui Co-op ensures that each weaver has a say in the pricing and receives a fair and generous percentage when their products are sold.

Sarah's Story - A Journey of Fulfillment
Sarah, the host and guide of the Akhnif Glaoui Carpet Cooperative, is a true advocate for women's recognition and self-sufficiency. Having pursued a degree in English studies in Marrakech, Sarah initially worked as a school teacher. However, her passion for promoting the co-op's work and teaching English to the women weavers led her back to her home near Aït Binhaddou. Through her work, she strives to change narratives, where men traditionally spoke for the women and their creations. In this place, those middle-men are out of the picture.

A Pleasant and Informative Shopping Experience
One of the hallmarks of Akhnif Glaoui is its stress-free shopping experience. Unlike the typical pressure to buy that tourists often encounter, visitors to Akhnif Glaoui are free to explore, learn about rugs and carpets, and even place orders later based on their specific measurements back home. The co-op ensures reliable shipping, covered by insurance, giving customers peace of mind and flexibility. The emphasis here is on appreciating the craftsmanship and beauty of these unique creations, and making an informed, pressure-free purchase.

Supporting Financial Independence
Many of the weavers are widowed or supporting their families single-handedly. With the co-op's assistance, they can gain an income and contribute to their households. The freedom to determine the price of their rugs and receive a significant percentage when sold provides these women with agency and a greater sense of control over their lives.

The Impact and Legacy
Akhnif Glaoui not only supports the current generation of weavers but also looks to the future, since weaving is a unique and delicate art that is more and more at risk of disappearing in a modernizing world. By investing in the education of young girls, particularly in the art of rug weaving, the co-op ensures the preservation of this traditional craft. Passages of knowledge from grandmothers to mothers to daughters keep the art alive, while initiatives to introduce weaving programs in schools would further strengthen the tradition.

Visit
Visiting the Akhnif Glaoui Carpet Cooperative is a truly eye-opening experience. Witness firsthand the incredible talent and hard work that goes into each rug. The co-op's commitment to empowering women and preserving Morocco's cultural heritage is commendable. Whether you're in search of a unique carpet or simply want to support women artisans, a visit to Akhnif Glaoui is highly recommended when you're in southern Morocco. If you're going to Ouarzazate and Aït Binhaddou already, make a point of taking the extra drive to check them out.

By choosing to shop here, you are contributing to the financial independence of women and helping to sustain a craft that has been passed down through generations. Embrace the opportunity to be a part of a journey that uplifts communities and celebrates the rich cultural tapestry of Morocco.

Podcast episode: "Where to Find a Genuine Moroccan Rug and a Positive, Ethical Shopping Experience"

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With Appreciation,

Your Host

Azdean Elmoustaquim

Your friendly local Destination Morocco expert.

Check out our podcast, and join me on YouTube every second Wednesday of the month for our live Q&A session!

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