Lamia Temimi
Sawa – Owner & Managing Director, PR & Communications Agency
Sawa Guesthouse – Owner & Managing Director
Sawa Taste Tunisia – Co-creator, guide & translator
Lamia Temimi’s journey is a testament to dedication, versatility, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in the tourism and hospitality industry. With a solid foundation laid at Oxford Brookes University, where she earned her degree in Hotel & Catering Management, Lamia embarked on a career path marked by innovation and leadership. Her tenure at The Residence Tunis Hotel marked the beginning of a remarkable professional odyssey.
As a project manager specializing in communication and PR, Lamia honed her skills, laying the groundwork for what would become a distinguished career. In 2001, Lamia took on a pivotal role in the opening team of the Renaissance Tunis before transitioning to Dubai as the field marketing and PR manager for the Middle East, Africa, and the Subcontinent within Marriott Global Sales Organisation. Her expertise soon expanded beyond borders as she assumed responsibility for communication in French-speaking countries across Africa, based in Cairo, showcasing her adaptability and cultural fluency. In 2006, Lamia returned to Tunisia, where she founded Sawa, a Communication & PR agency. Under her leadership, Sawa emerged as a powerhouse, representing prestigious clients.
In 2017, Lamia embarked on a new chapter, choosing to embrace a quieter, more intimate setting by establishing Sawa guesthouse and table d’hôtes in the countryside. This transition epitomized Lamia’s entrepreneurial spirit and her commitment to exploring new horizons. Not content with conventional hospitality, Lamia unveiled Sawa Taste of Tunisia in 2023, offering immersive culinary tours that showcase the rich tapestry of Tunisian cuisine. Lamia’s multifaceted expertise extends beyond traditional hospitality, encompassing a deep commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism practices. Hers advocacy for sustainable tourism reflects her belief in the power of responsible travel to foster economic growth, cultural exchange, and environmental conservation. By imparting her knowledge and expertise in sustainable tourism practices, agritourism, and oleo tourism, Lamia empowers others to embrace a more conscientious approach to hospitality and tourism, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the beauty and bounty of our planet.
Beyond her professional achievements, Lamia, as an IGCAT Expert, is a passionate advocate for community engagement and empowerment. Her involvement in Rotary, the International Women’s Group of Tunisia, and mixed chambers of commerce underscores her dedication to fostering meaningful connections and driving positive change. Lamia’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of passion, persistence, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. As she continues to push boundaries and embrace new challenges, Lamiaremains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring professionals in the tourism and hospitality industry.
