In November 2025, Shanga had the great honor of hosting a special creative partnership that brought together global craft traditions and community-centred ingenuity through the Glass Bridges: From Murano to Shanga initiative. The project was initiated and guided by French designer Emmanuel Babled, founder of Kukua Ltd, whose long-standing commitment to design, sustainability and social impact in Tanzania helped shape this meaningful exchange between Murano and Shanga.
For ten days, master glassblowers from Murano — a place world-renowned for centuries of glassmaking excellence — travelled to Arusha to work side-by-side with the artisans of Shanga. Under the guidance of Venetian masters Andrea Zilio and Luigi Varagnolo, this unique workshop united two distinct artistic worlds: Murano’s deep historical techniques and Shanga’s inventive approach to recycled materials.
More than a technical exchange, this collaboration was a meaningful cultural dialogue. It was an invitation to explore how creativity crosses boundaries, enriches communities and opens new possibilities for expression. The Shanga workshop buzzed with energy, curiosity and new friendships as skills were shared, stories were exchanged, and local and visiting makers found common ground in glass.
Visitors to Shanga witnessed firsthand how the Venetian guests brought centuries of expertise, while our own artisans brought unrivalled passion and resourcefulness. Together, they created pieces that reflect both global heritage and local spirit — works that are as rich in meaning as they are in craftsmanship.
This initiative was made possible through the generous support of a dedicated group of partners and contributors, including the Embassy of Italy, the Pentagram Foundation (Switzerland), Elewana Group (Tanzania), Effetre Murano (Venice), ACN Group and The Rock Restaurant Zanzibar, NEOS, and Air Tanzania. Their collective support — spanning the donation of pipes and coloured glass, the transport of materials from Murano to Tanzania, travel assistance, logistics, and hospitality during the workshop — enabled essential tools and equipment to reach Shanga and ensured the successful delivery of the programme. We also extend our sincere thanks to Monica Spezia, whose photography and video documentation captured the spirit and impact of the workshop. Together, these contributions have created a lasting legacy that will benefit Shanga’s artisans well beyond the workshop week, strengthening the centre’s capacity to innovate, teach, and build a sustainable creative future.
Beyond the art created, what truly resonates with us is the shared sense of purpose — how bonds formed over molten glass can ripple outward to inspire inclusivity, cooperation and mutual respect. We are deeply grateful to everyone involved for their energy, generosity and vision.