Our Story
The Wee Souk, or the women's economic empowerment souk, is a small, specially selected collection of homeware, gifts and accessories lovingly handcrafted by the spectacularly talented artisans of Tunisia. Over 90% of our artisans are women and the remaining 10% are family businesses. We endeavour to work directly with artisans so that they are paid the full amount for their skill and time. Working with natural materials such as wool, palm leaf, silver and more recently cactus leather, we create pieces that are meant to last. We seek to promote and preserve the unique talents and traditions that exist in Tunisia, and most of all, to return the love.
Founder Kimberley hails from a background in fundraising & communications in the nonprofit sector and her work has taken her around the world from Palestine to Chile to Sweden and of course, her beloved Tunisia. A love affair which began unexpectedly in 2012 when she spent a year there volunteering having failed to secure a placement in her first choice, Palestine. It was 'maktoub' as they say in Arabic. Destiny.
As the country was reborn following its jasmine revolution, she too felt renewed and finally found, defined by the experience. She travelled the length and breadth of the country, in awe of its diverse and rich culture and traditions. Saturdays were souk days and she delighted in getting lost amongst carpets, copper and qufas (baskets!). By 2016 there was a marked resurgence of the love of traditional products in the country, with up and coming designers adding a contemporary feel to time honoured crafts.
And so, the idea for The Wee Souk was born. A chance, to return even a little of the love given to her during her time there. To champion women, their work, and their worth.
Over to the artisans.
Founder Kimberley hails from a background in fundraising & communications in the nonprofit sector and her work has taken her around the world from Palestine to Chile to Sweden and of course, her beloved Tunisia. A love affair which began unexpectedly in 2012 when she spent a year there volunteering having failed to secure a placement in her first choice, Palestine. It was 'maktoub' as they say in Arabic. Destiny.
As the country was reborn following its jasmine revolution, she too felt renewed and finally found, defined by the experience. She travelled the length and breadth of the country, in awe of its diverse and rich culture and traditions. Saturdays were souk days and she delighted in getting lost amongst carpets, copper and qufas (baskets!). By 2016 there was a marked resurgence of the love of traditional products in the country, with up and coming designers adding a contemporary feel to time honoured crafts.
And so, the idea for The Wee Souk was born. A chance, to return even a little of the love given to her during her time there. To champion women, their work, and their worth.
Over to the artisans.