Today we’d like to introduce you to Moe El Hamawi.
Hi Moe, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
It’s been a hell of a road! Building something from scratch can be the biggest challenge that anyone can face in their career, especially when the only asset they had was themselves.
It all began back in October 12, 2005, when I had to leave my homeland Beirut Lebanon seeking a new beginning (new life.) it was all a dream but who knew that I was one out of five hundred thousand people that won the immigration lottery and was allowed in United States legally.
Adjusting was tough, new school, new neighbors, new rules, and most importantly a new language I knew some English but I wasn’t fluent. I dropped out of Fordson High School in 2006 because I felt like I didn’t belong, and I’ve had this feeling majority of my life. After dropping out sixteen-hour shifts at a gas station were an everyday thing. For a whole year 365 days those long shifts went on then a miracle happened! I met the love of my life and that’s when I decided something needs to change! Falling in love and getting married at twenty-one was an obstacle if its own and now celebrating a decade of marriage along with three beautiful kids The next goal was getting a GED and attending classes at a school craft college for culinary. Along with attending culinary school, I was working thirteen-hour shifts at American Coney Island in downtown Detroit! Putting myself through school and finding my passion that’s when I knew I was destined for greater things. Being able to learn from the best chefs in the country it gave me an advantage my future career. Not to mention I failed my first class. I’m glad I did. It taught me a lot. The motivation that I received from the certified master chef Shawn Loving was priceless it helped me reach my next level, Having the privilege to work at the Detroit Athletic Club took my experience to the next level after working there for three years I knew I was ready to start something that will leave a legacy. Putting my two-week notice in 2016 was a new beginning (new life.)
Rabih Hamawi played a big role in my start-up career. Having a mentor and a big brother that was there for me most of the time, guiding me in to the right direction, and making sure I’m on the right track, and today he is my franchise corporation lawyer.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The only challenge I face currently in my career is sacrificing precious time with my family. Other challenges are just part of the game and you have to know the game.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Big Moe’s Kitchen?
Big Moe’s vision is to be the world’s best gourmet quick service inexpensive experience. Being the best means providing high-quality food at affordable price, great service, and value.
So, we can make every customer’s experience unforgettable and flavorful.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
The biggest support was from the community no question about it and the people who believed in the brand from the beginning who pushed me to expand. Fast forward to 2017 I decided to expand Big Moes Kitchen and that’s when my brother-in-law and business partner Hass Jomaa took on a new challenge to open our Garden City location!
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: [email protected]
- Instagram: www.Instagram.com/bigmoeskitchen
- Facebook: www.Facebook.com/bigmoeskitchen
- Yelp: www.Yelp.com/bigmoeskitchen
