About Zawaya

ZAWAYA was founded in 2003 by Nabila Mango and Haya Shawwa Ben Halim to promote the public expression of Arab art and culture in the Bay Area. ZAWAYA is the umbrella organization for ASWAT and its affiliated branches for literary, educational and visual arts. ASWAT is comprised of a twenty member orchestra and another twenty singers. ASWAT provides the only expression of traditional, culturally rooted Arabic music in the Bay Area. Zawaya means “aspects” or “corners”, suggesting the multiple artistic expressions to be discovered and enjoyed in Arabic culture. The organization is working toward a time when it will be able to celebrate all aspects of Arab heritage including dance, theater, the oral arts including poetry, recitation and storytelling, calligraphy, needlepoint and photography. ZAWAYA is a tax- exempt, tax-deductible organization with 501(C)(3) status.

ZAWAYA’s philosophy is one of pluralism and inclusion. The board, musicians, singers and audience are diverse both by intention and because ZAWAYA attracts people from a wide spectrum of cultural, ethnic and racial backgrounds. In 2009 ZAWAYA will start a youth ASWAT music ensemble and youth Debke classes in the Peninsula. ZAWAYA has grown and expanded despite an inhospitable politically-charged climate. We sincerely welcome your support, donations and attendance.

Contact Us
Zawaya
3150 18th St. Suite 523
San Francisco, CA 94110
(415) 255 9330

For information and comments about ZAWAYA and Aswat Ensemble
info@zawaya.org

To learn more about making a tax deductable donation
donate@zawaya.org

If you would like to join Aswat Ensemble
join@zawaya.org

ZAWAYA’s Executive Committee: 
Duraid Musleh, President 
Haya Shawwa Ben Halim, Vice-president 
Lucia Volk, Recording Secretary 
Michael Carrier, Treasurer

Board members: 
Mohammed Arrabi
Margaret Coyne 
Suzanne El-Gamal 
Nabila Mango 
Maher Sabry 
Shahdan Shazly