In brief
In a quest to preserve their culture, a young Palestinian couple, Qassem Abu Khalaf and Malak Hijazi, have launched a line of perfumes that capture the essence of their homeland amidst the backdrop of conflict.
Qassem and Malak, residents of East Jerusalem, have infused their Mejana fragrance line with rich representations of Palestinian history. Drawing inspiration from traditional songs and local folklore, they've created several scents that echo the nation's past while aiming to uplift spirits during difficult times. In the flowing fields of the Jordan Valley, women harmonize with old folk melodies while harvesting olives, infusing the air with cherished memories. The duo's perfumes serve as a nostalgic embrace of their heritage during a time of strife.Qassem, a materials engineer, and Malak, a teacher, have dedicated years to developing their fragrances. As they moved forward, they crafted unique scents resonating with local tales; Zaref Atool evokes the charm of ancient Jerusalem and Rozana recalls a ship that promised hope during a historical famine. Each scent nurtures nostalgia, evoking shared stories of joy and resilience.Named Mejana after the traditional songs of laborers, the fragrances are intended to connect the current generation with their roots. Despite the challenges that arose from the ongoing war, they found success sharing their products with the Palestinian diaspora, particularly in Australia. Their new collection, elegantly boxed and adorned with local artistry, symbolizes the memories of homes lost and hopes for a better future.In addition to their entrepreneurial journey, Qassem and Malak recently welcomed their daughter, Sadeel, into a world fraught with uncertainty. While the current climate weighs heavy on their hearts, they remain hopeful that brighter days are ahead, believing that sometimes, even the smallest scents can unlock cherished moments from the past.
