In 2023, during Kouadio’s first trip to Cairo, he met Zedan (aka Zee) at a local skate event celebrating the city’s growing skateboard culture. The energy was raw, the community was tight, and the creativity was contagious. Among the skaters, artists, and photographers stood Zee founder of MERAKI Skateboards, a brand he dreams of turning into Egypt’s first homegrown skateboard company.

MERAKI isn’t just about boards. It’s about community, craftsmanship, and freedom of expression. Zee and his friends build their skateboards from scratch in Cairo, using limited resources but limitless imagination. Beyond creating boards, Zee’s goal is to grow and support the local skate scene, making space for his friends and welcoming anyone who shares the love of skating and creativity.

Our collaboration began with a custom board project we designed it together, and Zee brought it to life using what he had available. It’s just the start of something bigger. Together, we want to continue building from new board designs and exhibitions to community events and workshops that give local youth access to tools, mentorship, and creative expression.

But to make this happen, we need help.

We’re calling on brands, organisations, and individuals who share our vision to get involved whether through product support, funding, or resources to help build local structures for the Cairo skate scene.

Every contribution counts , big or small.

If you’d like to support Zee and the MERAKI movement, you can donate directly below.