Malaika

Malaika textiles, glass, and Malaika Fayoum Pottery

Malaika was founded in 2004 by Margarita Andrade and Goya Gallagher. Having grown up in Ecuador, they found themselves living and settled in Egypt. With backgrounds in design and a keen interest in embroidery, crocheting, and hand-drawn thread work, the decision to use Egyptian cotton to produce high-quality bedding was a natural one.

At the heart of their business model, Malaika focuses on teaching hand embroidery to local women, providing them with the opportunity to learn a valuable skill and improve their economic situation.

Socially disadvantaged women in Egypt receive an education This model grew from a simple idea: many women, regardless of age, background, or literacy skills, can learn to sew. Today, dozens of vulnerable Egyptian women and refugees travel to Malaika’s self-funded embroidery school to learn embroidery techniques. Once skilled, the women leave the school and return to work from home, allowing more women to be educated there.

This enables women to take control of their economic futures without breaking social norms. Because many work from home, they can generate income, making a difference without disrupting traditional family patterns and cultural expectations.

The Malaika model is flexible and highlights each woman’s strengths. This means that each Malaika product is a small work of art. Created between people, in a dynamic, fluid, and creative process.

We believe that promoting entrepreneurship and responsible business is a stronger form of empowerment than aid.

Since the launch of its first collection, Malaika’s business has flourished. In 2009, Malaika built its own factory with 60 employees, enabling complete control over quality and craftsmanship. In 2018, we opened our own embroidery school.

In addition to its signature bedding, Malaika’s range now includes striking silk-printed accessories, super-soft terry towels, luxurious cushions, and beautifully embroidered tablecloths, all made from the finest Egyptian materials.

Handmade ceramics from Egypt Fayoum pottery is an example of an ancient art form that still thrives today. Originally developed in the Fayoum region of Egypt, this form of pottery has a rich history and a unique aesthetic that has been admired for centuries.

The distinctive feature of Fayoum pottery is its use of a special technique called “fayoumi”. The clay is hand-shaped and then decorated with simple, geometric patterns and symbolic motifs. These patterns, often inspired by nature or Egyptian mythology, imbue each piece of Fayoum pottery with deep symbolic meaning and anchor it in the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Fayoum pottery is not only known for its beauty but also for its durability and functionality. Traditional production methods and the use of local clay and natural pigments result in ceramic objects that are sturdy and suitable for everyday use.

Today, Fayoum pottery has been revived by a new generation of artists and craftsmen who are working to preserve and continue this ancient tradition. Their works are not only found in Egypt but also in galleries and homes around the world. Feel free to use the plates as platters on your walls and decorate your home with cultural history from Egypt.

Check out our fine selection of handmade tableware.