Betelhem Lakew

Betelhem Lakew, the lead instructor and pottery maker at Shekla Ethiopia, is passionate about preserving and evolving Ethiopia’s rich pottery tradition. At Shekla Ethiopia – Pottery Studio in Addis, she leads a creative journey where tradition meets innovation to tell a compelling story through clay. Rooted in centuries-old practices, the studio works to safeguard cultural heritage while embracing modern techniques.

Betelhem’s dedication shines through in the functional and beautiful pottery she creates, including convenient pieces for cooking and serving, among other thoughtfully crafted products. By incorporating electric pottery wheels, Shekla revitalizes traditional methods and makes the craft more sustainable and accessible for future generations. Each piece blends history, creativity, and contemporary design — honoring the past while shaping the future of local artistry.