Eve Branson Foundation

The Eve Branson Foundation was set up by Sir Richard Branson’s mother Eve Branson, after she fell in love with the area when Richard bought the beautiful boutique hotel Kasbah Tamadot. The hotel is located in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains, just under one hour drive from Marrakech. Since opening in 2005, the Kasbah Tamadot has been welcoming guests, who have been able to learn more about the Eve Branson Foundation by visiting the various initiatives in the area.

The Foundation operates three vocational centres: Tansghart Craft Centre, Tansghart Woodwork Centre and Tamgounssi Weaving Workshop. These centres provide young people from the local community and villages with the training, tools and space to learn and share new skills. The centres teach traditional artisan craft-making, including weaving, woodworking, tailoring and embroidery. In these craft centres, the artisans create beautiful handmade home and lifestyle products, using ancient artisanal techniques, while combining traditional designs with contemporary Moroccan style.

Since 2005, the collaborative programmes of the Foundation have made a positive impact in the region and continues to work in close partnership with award-winning hotel Kasbah Tamadot to promote the social cause and its positive impact on the people in the local area. Over 98% of staff recruited and trained at Kasbah Tamadot are from the local Berber villages, so guests enjoy a true sense of local hospitality while also benefiting the local community.

By visiting the Foundation and Kasbah Tamadot, you will be making a positive impact through your travels. Come and meet the locals over a glass of traditional Berber mint tea and learn more about these precious Atlas Mountain communities.

All photo credits: Charlie Dailey