In June 2024, Mariam Abdelrahman visited Rebero Embrace. Currently she resides in Toronto (Canada), working as an Architecture Assistant at SvN Architects + Planners, focusing on creating sustainable, socially responsible buildings. She writes:

“By nature, I have an intense passion for the Arts and recently established Makani in Summer 2023. Makani is a business specializing in handmade tableware and home decor, drawing inspiration from the rich heritage of traditional Sudanese and East African pottery. Makani aims to support the Sudanese diaspora forced to leave their country at the outbreak of war in April 2023 by reviving the practice of traditional craftsmanship of pieces once traded in Omdurman Market, Sudan’s largest market destroyed in the recent conflict. Currently, I am running a Makani Archival Program in which people can submit photos of objects they acquired from Sudan and share their memories associated with it. Beyond my role at SvN, I support emerging Black talent. I was a mentor and currently serve as a program facilitator for Building Black Success Through Design (BBSD) Creative Arts Group, a successful program offered to high school students who would like to pursue arts and architecture through the University of Toronto. I also volunteer for Building Equality in Architecture (BEAT), a non-profit organization that empowers women in the design community.”

Furthermore, she received an architecture degree from the University of Toronto, where she solidified her interest in the convergence of art and design with her cultural background.

Mariam was particularly interested in ceramics of the region. Marga De Jaegere and Robert Musonera introduced her to several potteries:

• LAINI STUDIO is located in Kigali. It was founded a couple of years ago by Winnie Kalise.
• GATAGARA POTTERY is located in Gatagara, 90min drive from Kigali.
• KIGALI POTTERY is located in Kigali