Hamed Allahyari was sat amidst piles of construction supplies, paint roller in hand, as he took my call about his newest culinary venture, Kababi. Despite a frenzied schedule preparing Kababi, his new Iranian restaurant, for its April grand opening, Hamed's voice conveyed a grounded sense of pride in how far he has come in a … Continue reading A Taste Of Tehran in Melbourne
When Damascus native Racha Abou Alchamat immigrated to Australia 10 years ago with her family, starting a new life and searching for good opportunities, she longed for a taste of home. For Racha, the flavours of Syria signify more than satisfying food, they are a reminder of her heritage and years spent with her father … Continue reading Bringing the Flavors of Syria to Australia
Reem Elyousef, a first-generation Australian, grew up with the vibrant sights, smells, and tastes of her family’s Palestinian culture. Though born in Australia, both of Reem’s parents were raised in refugee camps in Lebanon after her grandparents were forced to flee Palestine in 1948. Their family home was filled with traditions handed down through generations. … Continue reading Sharing the sweet taste of Palestinian traditions
In Part 1 of our holiday gift guide, we highlighted some great gift ideas for the art lovers, beauty aficionados, nature enthusiasts and little ones in your life. Here in Part 2 of the Christmas gift guide, we’re featuring five more talented merchants who have fled hardship in their home countries to build new lives … Continue reading Shop refugee-made gifts this Christmas
As the second anniversary of the Taliban's resurgence in Afghanistan approaches, the country continues to struggle with political upheaval and uncertainty. One person impacted by this turmoil is Nazdana Bakhtiari. Nazdana is a talented artist who escaped Afghanistan with the assistance of the Australian Defence Force. Her story is a poignant reflection of her home … Continue reading An Afghan artist reclaiming her power
Refugee Week presents an opportunity to recognise the ongoing challenges being endured by refugees and people seeking asylum in Australia, every day. It is a time when the whole Australian population can come together to collectively ask the government to adopt policies that ensure refugees and people seeking asylum are treated with dignity, compassion and … Continue reading Temporary Protection Visas: The harsh reality faced by refugees
Sustainability has become a buzzword in the fashion industry in recent years and for good reason. With the rise of fast fashion and its environmental and social impact, consumers are increasingly looking for ways to shop ethically and sustainably. Welcome Merchant is proud to support fashion brands Akos Creative, Second Stitch, Social Studio, and The … Continue reading Four Ethical Fashion Brands You Need to Know About
As we settle into winter and more nights spent inside, Welcome Merchant has rounded up ideas from our directory to help you stay warm in the chilly season, and treat yourself a little bit too while you're at it! Pictured: Beit e’Shai organic herbal tea, great for a warm feeling inside. Bath time pampering There’s … Continue reading Welcome Merchant Winter Warmers
Welcome Merchant supports National Reconciliation Week, NAIDOC week and Pay the Rent
Refugee and Asylum Seeker Entrepreneurs will be at the Welcome Merchant pop-up market in Thornbury on Sunday, May 1