Today we’d like to introduce you to Naimah Hamid.
Hi Naimah, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey began many years ago when I first set foot in a coffee shop named Agora. At that time, I was new to the Montrose area and just a ripe 20-year-old. I walked into Agora with the intent of finding a job, unaware of the adventure that awaited me. To my surprise, I was offered a position as a barista, launching me into the world of coffee and business. Little did I know that this would mark the beginning of a beautiful relationship.
My time at Agora remains some of the most cherished days of my life. It felt like the “Cheers” of Houston, where everyone knew your name and familiar faces greeted you daily. The management was exceptional and eventually became like family. They imparted invaluable knowledge about coffee and business that I carry with me today. After dedicating eight years to Agora, I decided to part ways, driven by a desire for personal growth and new horizons.
I ventured into various roles at different bars, expanding my craft and skill set. Eventually, through networking and perseverance, I seized the opportunity to open my first coffee shop. Armed with $20,000 in my pocket and the support of a food hall owner who believed in me, Analouge Coffee Bar was born. The coffee shop’s success marked the realization of a long-cherished dream.
As the coffee shop thrived, I decided to sell it, realizing a handsome profit. It was during this time that I conceived the idea of entrepreneurship. I had honed my skills and knew I could succeed. An opportunity arose when a customer, who had always dreamt of opening a coffee shop, approached me for guidance. Coffeetrend was born from the ground up, from concept to menu, staff training, vendor relationships, and even collaborating closely with architects on design.
Once Coffeetrend was up and running smoothly, I made the decision to sell my shares to my business partner. This marked a transition in my journey, allowing me to focus on entrepreneurship consulting and business ventures.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Comparing my journey to the misfortunes others have faced, I’ve certainly had my share of challenges. It’s been a tough road, but one I’ve embraced. I’m not someone born into wealth or privilege, and everything I’ve achieved has been the result of relentless effort from the ground up. I hold immense gratitude for the difficulties I’ve encountered because they’ve been the crucible that forged my strength, and my failures have been my most profound teachers.
During my early twenties, I had the privilege of being surrounded by accomplished adults who embodied strong morals and values. Their influence played a significant role in shaping my character and helping me mature. Their presence instilled in me the belief that by adhering to these principles and staying true to my dreams, success would ultimately come as a reward for hard work and integrity.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
When it comes to my career, I proudly wear the hat of an entrepreneur. It all commenced within the realm of coffee, but it was delving into the intricacies of the business world that truly allowed me to flourish. Throughout my journey, even while I remained deeply involved in the coffee industry, I always had side hustles. I’ve never been content with just one job; I’ve always sought multiple avenues to broaden my skill set. These various roles became invaluable building blocks for my career in entrepreneurship, where I now specialize primarily in coffee-related ventures, particularly in the art of opening and nurturing coffee shops from the ground up.
As a consultant, I immerse myself in each coffee shop project, taking on roles such as General Manager and working hands-on during the initial phases. Once the shop begins to thrive, I step back, ensuring a smooth transition as I train the incoming General Manager to take over my responsibilities. Yet, my proudest achievement extends beyond entrepreneurship. What truly fills me with pride is my decision to return to school and pursue my bachelor’s degree. This endeavor holds special significance as I am set to become the first in my family to attain such an accomplishment. I’m aware that this achievement will unlock numerous opportunities, and that thought alone brings immense joy.
While my professional identity is often intertwined with coffee, some affectionately know me as “Nana Cappuccino.” However, beyond the realm of coffee, I’m recognized for my extensive travel experiences. Traveling has been a transformative journey that revealed facets of my personality I never knew existed. An especially memorable adventure involved pedaling my bicycle across several countries, a journey that left an indelible mark on my life.
What sets me apart from others in the business world is the fact that I am a young woman who embarked on this journey without the traditional educational training. My alma mater? The University of Life, where street smarts and hands-on experience have been my most trusted companions.
What would you say has been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The most profound lesson I’ve gleaned from my journey is the importance of staying true to oneself. It’s easy to become entangled in the complexities of life, losing sight of the fundamental purpose behind every action. Ultimately, the driving force for our endeavors is the sheer passion and love we hold for what we do.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.coffeeconsultpro.com
