Hi Ofamily, welcome to my workshop!
All of this was just an idea in 2017. I had made a couple of necklaces for myself, it was meant to represent things that I wanted to remember. I never took them off and no matter where I went these necklaces were a great conversation starter. People seemed to really resonate with the story. I didn’t expect that at all.
The sword's symbolic tale.
In my culture, the sword symbolizes pride, joy, and strength. The way men danced with it gave me goosebumps; it was so powerful. I needed to claim that strong symbol, not by walking around with a sword, but by wearing a beautiful piece of jewelry that embodied its essence. It served as a reminder of those meaningful qualities. I chose the most beautiful piece, the centrepiece of the sword, and ran with it.
Running Where?
From day one, I made it a point to work with the best artisans in the region to create ethical, handcrafted jewelry. I fell in love with the process, and those artisans taught me so much while I challenged them along the way. I've continued to work closely with the local community ever since.
Now, you might wonder: what value do I, with my background in Architectural Design from the U.S. and studies in Jewelry Design at the International Gemological Institute (IGI), bring to artisans with over 20 years of experience? I see myself as a bridge, linking the regional landscape and fine jewelry in a modern way that adds diversity to the global jewelry scene.
Working together, growing together.
I believe in growth through collaboration. I've grown as a designer and a business owner much more rapidly by working with other artisans and entrepreneurs than I did in school. This inspiration led me to build a community that is willing to collaborate and share resources. There has never been a better time for creatives in our region to unite and create. Ofa is a fruit of that belief – one for all and all for one.
Last Request!
At the end of this journey, there is you. You are the most important part of this story, and I'd like to invite you to share your expectations and aspirations for Ofa in the future. Your input is invaluable, and you can reach me personally at thehala@ofaofficial.com.
Thank you for joining us on this remarkable journey. Together, we can redefine the world of jewelry.
With love,
Hala
Hi Ofamily, welcome to my workshop!
How it started...
All of this was just an idea in 2017. I had made a couple of necklaces for myself, it was meant to represent things that I wanted to remember. I never took them off and no matter where I went these necklaces were a great conversation starter. People seemed to really resonate with the story. I didn’t expect that at all.
Why the sword?
In my culture, the sword holds deep symbolism, representing pride, joy, and strength. Watching men gracefully dance with swords would send shivers down my spine; it exuded an unparalleled power.
I felt compelled to encapsulate this powerful symbol in a beautiful piece of jewelry, not as a literal sword, but as a work of art that would remind me of its significance. I chose the most exquisite element, the centerpiece of the sword, and began my creative journey.
Experience vs Fresh Eye.
The process was a revelation, and the artisans I worked with taught me invaluable lessons. Some of them had decades of experience, and here I was, asking myself ‘what can I bring to the table?’.
We challenged each other along the way, fostering a relationship of growth and mutual learning. To this day, I continue to work closely with the local artisans, cherishing the bond we've forged, and bridging the traditional regional craftsmanship with modern fine jewelry design.
Last request!
At the end of this journey, there is you. You are the most important part of this story, and I'd like to invite you to share your expectations and aspirations for Ofa in the future. Your input is invaluable, and you can reach me personally at thehala@ofaofficial.com.
Thank you for joining us on this remarkable journey.
Together, we can redefine the world of jewelry.
with love,