A Recipe for Success: Khaled’s Entrepreneurial Journey
When Khaled, his wife, and their two children arrived in the United States in May 2024, they carried hope for a brighter future. Resettled through World Relief Memphis, the family was eager to begin rebuilding their lives, even as they faced the uncertainty of a new country, culture, and community.
For Khaled, that hope was met with determination. He knew that learning to navigate an unfamiliar culture and building connections in his new community would be essential to creating a flourishing future for his family.
A New Beginning, New Challenges
After arriving in the U.S., Khaled learned about the job market and quickly realized how limited employment opportunities are for people who do not speak English. Many of the available positions were primarily in warehouses, food service, or other entry-level industries.
“As immigrants, there is a fear of not finding a job quickly enough or losing the one opportunity you have at an established company without any backup plan or savings. It can leave you in a desperate situation where you are unable to provide for your family if you lose your job,” he said.
Khaled long dreamed of owning his own business, but pursuing that goal in Lebanon was challenging because raising capital and obtaining the necessary licenses and approvals were difficult.
Turning a Dream into Reality
Despite these obstacles, Khaled never gave up on his dream. Determined to succeed, he began working at local Middle Eastern restaurants to gain experience and better understand the restaurant industry in the United States. Over the next two years, he dedicated himself to learning the business, building relationships, and preparing for entrepreneurship.
Throughout his journey, Khaled emphasized the importance of community support. He consistently found encouragement from those around him who believed in his vision and helped him grow his customer base by recommending his products to family, friends, and other community members.
Over time, these connections opened doors to new opportunities and even attracted partners who supported his business aspirations.
His hard work paid off when he opened his own restaurant last September. To celebrate this important milestone, Khaled invited World Relief Memphis to join him and share his success.
Giving Back to the Community That Welcomed Him
Wanting to express his gratitude for the support he and his family received, Khaled also found ways to give back to the community. He participated in the Memphis Cup of Nations Family Festival Draw Event. As a gesture of appreciation to World Relief Memphis, he also generously donated a variety of baked goods at no cost.
Khaled’s journey is a powerful example of perseverance, determination, and hope in the face of uncertainty. Through hard work, resilience, and the support of a welcoming community, he and his family are building a brighter future.
His story reminds us that even in challenging times, hope can shine through when people choose to come alongside one another.
Together, we can be a light for families like Khaled’s, opening doors to opportunity, fostering belonging, and creating lasting change.
This year-end, will you help defy darkness and lead with light? Give today to help more families find hope, build community, and flourish.
We are so thankful to Khaled for sharing his journey of resilience and success in challenging times and allowing us to share it with you. Here at World Relief Memphis, we have seen God’s faithfulness through the support from people like you. We thank you for joining us on our journey in making Memphis a more welcoming community.
Writer: Maria Seijas
Communication Coordinator at World Relief Memphis.
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