Know Us

Preserved Identity is a social enterprise dedicated to preserving Palestinian identity, culture, heritage, and traditions while empowering refugees and supporting children in Gaza through meal donations.

Our ambition is to share Palestinian culture with the world by bringing authentic Palestinian products, stories, and traditions to a global audience.

We work closely with individuals, artisans, and organisations that are actively preserving Palestinian heritage through the products they create. By partnering with these makers and purchasing from them consistently, we help sustain traditional crafts, create employment opportunities, and provide a vital source of income for Palestinian families. For many of the artisans we work with, this is their only source of income.

We also recognise that many people who wish to support humanitarian causes can feel uncertain about where their donations go and whether they reach those most in need. To address this, Preserved Identity partners with trusted charitable organisations that provide evidence of aid delivery and ensure that donations reach their intended recipients. We are committed to transparency and accountability, giving our customers confidence that their support is making a genuine impact.

For every order placed*, we donate a meal to children in need. The more you shop, the more you give!

Our model is built around creating meaningful impact through every purchase. One-third of the funds from each order goes directly to the makers (artisans) who create our products, one-third is donated to support children in need, and one-third is reinvested back into the social enterprise to help sustain and grow our work.

By choosing Preserved Identity, you are not only purchasing a unique piece of Palestinian craftsmanship; you are supporting artisans, contributing to humanitarian efforts, and helping us continue this mission.

Our Team

Assalamu Alaikum & Kia Ora! My name is Mariam and I am originally from Tulkarm, West Bank, Palestine. I am the founder & director of Preserved Identity and currently running this social enterprise with my husband Ali who is a talented Palestinian artist and does all the artwork you will see on display when we are at events and markets. His artwork is also available to purchase under the artwork tab in our shop.

Despite having lived in NZ for more than 30 years, my connection and love for Palestine has only been increasing and I have been bringing awareness to the Palestinian cause for as long as I can remember. My activities include playing an active role in solidarity marches, organising and being involved in community events for Palestine, raising funds for charities, and for 3 years I also co-directed the social enterprise ‘Palestinian Made’.

My drive and motivation to run Preserved Identity stems from always having a deep-rooted connection to Palestine, being passionate about the cause and wanting to educate and bring awareness; the need to have a Palestinian voice and IDENTITY present. The frustration and disbelief at what is happening in Palestine was consuming me and it became about doing something about it; turning that frustration and passion into something that can make a difference at a humanitarian level.