Age: 46. Birthplace: Egypt. Profession: Entrepreneur. Pronouns: He/Him/His. Significant other: My wife, Volha ElAwadi. Languages spoken: English and Arabic.
Latest accomplishment: Wrote and published a book: THIRTY-ONE DOLLARS: From Washing Dishes to Wall Street, My Journey Pursuing the American Dream. Latest contribution to others: Speaking out against violence and encouraging dialogue between Muslim and non-Muslim communities. What’s been your big (or biggest leap)? Immigrating to the United States alone to start from the bottom and build a new life. Hobbies: Soccer, football, fishing, traveling. Recent travel or adventure: Traveling with my family to create lasting memories together. Last book read: Rich Dad, Poor Dad, by Robert Kiyosaki and Sharon Lechter. Recently viewed and recommended: Suits.
Personality profile: Resilient, driven, empathetic. What one word would your closest friend use to describe you? Loyal. Moral compass: Treat others with dignity and fairness, always. How do you define an ideal business relationship? Built on trust, transparency, and long-term commitment. What is your greatest joy? Being a father to Mohamed and Habiba. What word or phrase do you use far too often? God’s Will. What occupation, other than your own, do you most admire? Teachers and first responders. How do you relieve stress? Spend time with family. What is your go-to workout? Soccer. What ingredient is essential to your perfect vacation? Beach.
What was your first paying job? Dish washer. What was your favorite college course? Physics. What book have you repeatedly read? The Mountain Is You: Transforming Self-Sabotage Into Self-Mastery, by Brianna West. What movie have you repeatedly watched? Brave Heart. What’s prominently featured on your home or office wall? Photos of my family. Besides your parents, who has had the greatest influence on your life? My wife, Volha. What’s the best advice you received growing up? Work harder than everyone else and never forget where you came from. What’s the best advice you received in your career? Only serve what you eat. What modern technology innovation do you most appreciate? Social media, when used to connect and educate. What is your favorite app? CNBC. What is your go-to source of news and information? International news wires.
What change would you like to see in the world?
Freedom for everyone to live authentically without fear of stereotypes or hate.
What message do you want to send out into the world? Speak up against violence and stand for one another. What widely held belief do you reject? That differences divide us more than they unite us.
What title would you choose for the movie about your life? From the Bottom to the Top. As a kid, what did you first want to be when you grew up? A professional soccer player. After your loved ones, what object would you first save from your burning home? Family photo albums. What advice would you give your younger self? Trust the process. Your struggles will become your strength. What day in your life would you choose to re-live? The day I first arrived in the United States.
Personal mission: Building bridges between communities. Personal motto: Freedom for all. Desired epitaph: He built a life of purpose, family, and unity.
