Meet the Artisans: Cooperative Asnli from Immouzer Marmoucha

At Crafted Morocco, every rug has a story—and behind every story, there are the hands of artisans whose dedication and passion bring it to life. One of the most inspiring stories comes from Cooperative Asnli, led by Aicha Bertal, a mother of three and a skilled rug maker from the village of Immouzer Marmoucha in the High Atlas.

Aicha’s journey began with a simple, shared passion for weaving. Alongside a small group of women from her neighborhood, she created rugs in the traditional way. But despite their talent and hard work, middlemen often purchased their rugs at very low prices, leaving the women with little recognition and meager earnings. It was a cycle that many artisans in Morocco know all too well.

Refusing to accept this, Aicha and her fellow weavers decided to unite and form Cooperative Asnli. Their goal was clear: take control of their craft, sell their work directly, and ensure the value of their labor was recognized. The early days were challenging—they still navigated the old system of middlemen—but their determination never wavered.

A turning point came two years ago when they connected with Anou, a platform that helped them understand the true value of their work and access international markets. Suddenly, their rugs were not only appreciated locally but also desired abroad. This recognition inspired the cooperative to improve every aspect of their craft. They began carefully selecting high-quality wool, experimenting with harmonious colors, and mastering complex patterns. With guidance from Anou’s production team, they learned to plan each rug meticulously, ensuring that every design turned out perfectly.

Today, Cooperative Asnli’s rugs are more than decorative pieces—they are symbols of resilience, skill, and hope. Each weave reflects hours of care, creativity, and pride. For Aicha and her team, their work is not just about creating beautiful rugs; it is about telling their story, gaining independence, and sharing a part of Moroccan culture with the world.

Aicha’s dream for the future is heartfelt and ambitious: to expand the cooperative, reach more people, and gain the recognition that every artisan deserves. She envisions a world where their hard work is celebrated and where every rug carries not just warmth underfoot, but also the story of the hands that made it.