interview with Brahim Mohamed, the fouder of MABRA

It is my pleasure to welcome the perfumer Mr. Brahim Mohamed today, as we delve into his biography and explore his notable works through a series of insightful questions. I trust that this will be an enriching and enjoyable journey for
Could you walk us through your journey into the world of perfumery? What ignited your passion for creating fragrances?
This is achieved through high-quality ingredients, thoughtfully crafted accords, and a sincere vision. Each perfume I create reflects a part of my life, my travels, or my culture. This emotional connection is key to achieving genuine mastery.
As a perfumer, what was the pivotal moment in your career that solidified your path in this intricate and artistic craft?
The turning point was my encounter with natural raw materials and the discovery of their complexity.
I realized that true luxury in perfumery lies in the use of high-quality natural ingredients. This understanding guided my approach towards authentic perfumery, where each raw material is chosen with care to create unique compositions.
Who or what has been your greatest influence in shaping your vision and philosophy as a perfumer?
The perfume market is largely dominated by big investment groups, where profitability often outweighs quality. This reality has led to a proliferation of copies and a decline in innovation.
In response, I founded MABRA with a philosophy centered on quality, respect for raw materials, and affordability for fragrance enthusiasts. While the sustainability of the business is important, my priority is to offer authentic creations aligned with my values and the expectations of my clients.
In your perspective, what defines a truly exceptional fragrance, and how do you approach achieving that level of mastery in your creations?
To me, an exceptional perfume tells a story, evokes deep emotions, and leaves a lasting impression.This is achieved through high-quality ingredients, thoughtfully crafted accords, and a sincere vision. Each perfume I create reflects a part of my life, my travels, or my culture. This emotional connection is key to achieving genuine mastery.
Are there specific raw materials or olfactory families that you feel an emotional connection with, and how do they reflect in your designs?
Certain raw materials, like oud, vetiver, and orange blossom, hold a special place in my heart.
• Oud, with its depth and complexity, is central to my creations. For example, in Oud I Am, I used Trat oud to capture the essence of this Thai region that left a deep impression on me.
• Vetiver offers a unique earthy and woody depth. Beyond its aroma, it has soothing properties in aromatherapy, adding a holistic dimension to my creations.
• Orange blossom brings softness and brightness, evoking my cultural roots and personal memories.
What challenges have you faced throughout your career, and how have these experiences contributed to your growth as a perfumer?
Being self-taught was a challenge in itself.
I had to learn by reading, experimenting, asking questions, and researching, without formal training. This allowed me to develop a unique method, but it also required persistence and humility.
Another challenge was finding my place in an industry dominated by established luxury brands. These experiences fueled my creativity and strengthened my desire to offer genuine and authentic perfumery.
Looking back at your body of work, is there a particular fragrance or project that you consider the crown jewel of your career?
Every perfume I create carries a piece of my soul, but Bastion 23 holds a special place in my heart.
The idea for this perfume came to me during a trip through the streets of Algiers. It’s a sensory journey through the city, an homage to my Algerian roots, and a tribute to my childhood memories.
This perfume embodies everything I want to convey with MABRA: a story, an identity, and a deep emotional connection with those who wear it.
What advice would you give to aspiring perfumers who wish to follow in your footsteps and contribute to this beautiful industry?
Be curious, read a lot, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to experiment.
Find your own voice and stay true to who you are.
Perfumery is an art that requires patience and passion.
Most importantly, learn to listen: listen to raw materials, to other’s stories, and above all, to your own instincts.
Mr. Brahim, Thank you for sharing your valuable insights and expertise in the art of perfumery. Your passion and knowledge are truly inspiring.