Our Story
Building More Than Furniture: The Kanyamakan Narrative
Our Story
Former fighters and adversaries become today’s artist and carpenters creating unique design items
Once upon a time, March brought together a group of former fighters and adversaries from Jabal Mohsen and Beb el Tebbeneh in Tripoli, Lebanon. They met on the former demarcation line called “Syria Street” and worked hand in hand to break down the fictional walls of divide. Through their newfound strength and unity, they constructed their own community around innovation, art and creativity, away from the shackles of sectarianism and violence. These youth’s journey has been marked by incredible resilience and inspiring determination. They conceived these carefully crafted design items as a symbol of their power and ability to take ownership over their lives. By adopting their items, you are contributing to supporting them and spreading their message of love and acceptance.
Our Values and Principles
- Embrace equality by disregarding the origins of the youth.
- Encourage former adversaries to work together as equals.
- Foster bonds through shared experiences and collaboration.
- Provide youth with tools and opportunities in their rehabilitation journey.
- Support the larger community by promoting youth-crafted items.
- Support the youth in their path to independence as lebanese citizens.
Our Vision
Create a unified and inclusive Lebanon where former fighters get a second chance. By transforming reclaimed materials into beautiful artisanal pieces, MARCH aims to heal divisions, foster creativity, and inspire a sense of community and hope for a brighter future.
Our Mission
Empower communities in Lebanon by providing former fighters with opportunities for rehabilitation through sustainable craftsmanship. By transforming reclaimed materials into unique, meaningful items, MARCH aims to inspire unity, foster creativity, and support economic and personal growth.
Our Team
The Artisans of Change
At the heart of Kanyamakan are the skilled hands and passionate hearts of our team. From the artisans who carefully restore each thread and timber to the visionaries who design our future, every member is integral to our mission.
Leadership with a Vision
Our leaders, steeped in the wisdom of traditional craftsmanship yet with eyes set on the horizon of innovation, guide us with steady hands and open hearts.
Artisans with a Story
Meet the craftsmen and craftswomen, former fighters turned artists, whose life stories are as compelling as the pieces they create. Each chisel and brush stroke they lay down is not just an act of making but an act of healing.
Designers of Tomorrow
Collaborating with creatives like Bram Kerkhofs and Nataly Salameh, our designers bring a blend of local heritage and global perspective, ensuring every design is both authentic and avant-garde.
Our Supportive Backbone
Behind the scenes, our dedicated support staff ensure that every aspect of Kanyamakan runs smoothly, honoring our commitment to both quality and community.
Join Our Story
Kanyamakan Designs invites you to be part of this transformative journey. Every item purchased not only adds character to your home but also plays a part in the larger narrative of hope and new beginnings. Your support allows us to continue writing a story that starts with the words ‘once enemies, now allies.’
Testimonials
Voices of Transformation: Unity Forged Through Craftsmanship
