“Stitching together a dream in Canada"

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At 17 years of age, Wael Aun, left school in Syria and travelled to Kuwait where he learned the fine art of upholstery and furniture making from his uncle.  With the youngest of his 12 siblings only a year old, Wael needed to help support his family.  

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Wael's master skills, determination, and desire to support his family are what have sustained him and his family for over 25 years as he relocated in search of work and to escape the chaos, uprisings and war that have torn apart his homeland.  He has successfully opened stores in Syria, Lebanon, Greece and Jordan; working with hotels and restaurants as well as creating individual custom pieces. 

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In February 2016, as government sponsored refugees, Wael and his family moved one last time to Ottawa. They have embraced Ottawa, as it has allowed them to finally find peace again.   

 

In December 2017, Wael proudly opened Wael's Upholstery.  With already many satisfied customers to his credit, Wael prides himself on knowing his Middle Eastern skill set is unique in Ottawa.

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"No one knows how to do this work here, just tell me the colour and I will do the rest".  

 

 "I don't let any of my work leave my shop that's not perfect"