You, the customer and tastemaker, now have access to collections created by Tunisians.
SOUKRA celebrates these creative entrepreneurs by featuring the people, places, and products of Tunisia. I source collections from Tunisian designers who not only create products that incorporate easily into your home, but who also work and collaborate with artisan communities across the country who are sometimes part of an informal economy. Each item is made in small quantities to maintain craftsmanship, reduce waste, and be special for you.
I’m perpetually inspired and impressed by the Tunisian entrepreneurs I meet and the work being done in the creative communities in Tunisia. Showcasing their work is only one part of SOUKRA. Made in Tunisia: Blog offers educational programming on a wide range of topics, including designer interviews, recipes, neighborhood guides, features on other initiatives engaging with culture in Tunisia, and more.
As you explore the website – a doorway to Tunisia – I encourage you to notice the details that evoke Tunisian culture, such as Arabic script, photographic details, and the business name. The name SOUKRA is inspired by the Tunis suburb La Soukra, where many of my friend’s grew up. When speaking with customers, the name reminds them of “souq,” or marketplace in Arabic, despite a different spelling in Arabic, and also the word “sucre,” or sugar in French (Tunisia was a French protectorate 1881-1956 during France’s colonial Empire era).
People ask, Will you expand into other countries? This is about Tunisia, and only Tunisia. I’m committed to deepening our impact there, meeting more talented entrepreneurs and highlighting more designers. SOUKRA’s edge is the connections cultivated over the years since I lived in Tunisia in 2005, when I planted my roots there and made lifelong friends. Through extensive research and with the help of my network, I seek out designers and take the time to foster strong relationships and understand the cultural context of their work.
Lastly, in this divisive time, it is important to read beyond the news headlines. SOUKRA aims to foster mutual understanding and tolerance by celebrating the creative communities of Tunisia.
MEET THESE CREATIVE ENTREPRENEURS
LEARN ABOUT WHAT TUNISIA MEANS TO THEM
Sincerely,
Pauline Eveillard
