Lebanese people are known for their dedication and hard work, and also their urge towards excellence.
Many of them have achieved great things inside and out of Lebanon, and those in the diaspora are always duly acknowledged and acclaimed by their new place of residence they call home.
Mohamed Fakih is one of these fellow Lebanese achievers. Born in Tairdebba, the small village in south Lebanon, Fakih is the founder and CEO of Paramount Fine Foods, Middle Eastern restaurants, and food chains, operating in many countries such as Lebanon, the USA, Canada, Pakistan, and Ivory Coast in Africa.
This Lebanese immigrant managed to turn a struggling restaurant into an empire. Many have discussed and marveled at his success.
His work went further than just business to encompass the humanitarian field as well. He has dedicated part of his life to helping those in need.
Founder of the not-for-profit international organization The Fakih Foundation, he aims through it to alleviate poverty and provide advanced education “to ensure vulnerable communities are empowered for entrepreneurship, leadership, diversity, and inclusion.”
He is known as a community leader, participates regularly in fundraising campaigns, and supports many causes and organizations.
Some of these organizations include the Canadian Cancer Society, the Islamic Relief Worldwide, the Sick Kids Hospital, and the Make-a-Wish Foundation.
Recently, Fakih was named the “Best Businessman of the year at mBot,” a company of educational robots for kids. The ceremony was held by the Commerce Council of Mississauga (Toronto), the sixth-largest city in North America.
This ceremony was attended by politicians, businessmen as well as media figures. During the event, Mayor Bonnie Crombie gave the key of Mississauga to Mr. FaKih, making him the first Lebanese and first immigrant to be awarded the key.
Mayor of Mississauga Bonnie Crombie stated on her Facebook account, “I can’t think of anyone more deserving of Mississauga’s most prestigious honor. He’s a champion for diversity and a true community leader. Congratulations Mohammad!”