Today we’d like to introduce you to Ahmad Alyasin.
Hi Ahmad, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I originally hail from Jordan. On December 5, 1977, I arrived in the United States. I grew up in a small town in northern Jordan with limited amenities like electricity and running water. As one of 11 children, I supported my parents, who couldn’t speak English or read and write. After completing high school, I made the decision to move to the U.S. for further studies. With only 40 Jordanian dinars borrowed from selling one of our cows, which amounted to a mere $340, I embarked on my journey to Houston. Arriving in a foreign land with no acquaintances or connections, I found myself wandering the streets until I stumbled upon a gas station where I encountered some Arabic-speaking individuals. Showing them my school acceptance letter and I-20 for the English Language Center, they guided me to the school. However, when the school eventually closed down, I found myself once again without a place to go.
In a stroke of luck, I encountered a gentleman who happened to be from Jordan and spoke Arabic. He was kind enough to offer me a place to stay at his friend’s apartment. Both of them were Christians from Jordan and Lebanon, respectively, and they made me feel welcomed during my initial days in Houston. Despite having no money left after deducting expenses for school fees and transportation, I persevered. Within a month, I secured my first job as a busboy at Church’s Chicken. Recognizing the importance of education, I enrolled in classes at the University of Houston and later pursued flight engineering at San Jacinto College in order to become a pilot. During this time, I also worked as a waiter. Approximately 8 to 9 months later, I met my wife, a Cajun from Louisiana, and we got married. Shortly after, I entered a partnership in a restaurant, which I later sold for a significant profit. Since then, I have been involved in various business ventures while also prioritizing time with my family and traveling to oversee my investments.
My primary business revolves around finance. I am the owner of Optima Global Financial, a holding company specializing in IPOs and venture capital. As a creditor investor, I engage in the stock market, underwriting companies preparing to go public. With diverse interests spanning the globe, I have established offices in different parts of the world, including London, Zurich, Hong Kong, Dubai, Jordan, and Brazil.
My foray into the stock market began at a young age, despite initially lacking knowledge about stocks. However, my general business experience from my earlier ventures aided me in navigating this new domain. After identifying the financial sector as a top business opportunity for making money without excessive work hours, I aimed for the pinnacle of the financial industry by focusing on IPOs and venture capital. In 1994, I invested $4 million to establish Optima Global Financial, bringing in experienced professionals and forming a fruitful partnership. Over the past 28 years, Optima Global Financial has flourished, facilitating large-scale buyouts, recapitalizations, reverse mergers, and private equity funding. Today, our reach extends across the globe.
Around seven years ago, I ventured into the vitamin business, creating my own formulations and overseeing manufacturing. Collaborating with pharmacists and doctors, we developed a unique line of vitamins that cater to specific human body needs. Named Optima after my late son’s dream, I take great pride in this line of vitamins. Our company not only provides exceptional products but also engages in humanitarian work, supplying vitamins to refugee camps and engaging in compounding pharmacy services. This endeavor was born out of a personal experience when a doctor prescribed vitamins for me after observing my fatigue. This encounter led to the realization that such personalized vitamin formulations could benefit a wider audience. Since then, we have been manufacturing vitamins in California, but we are currently in the process of establishing a 100,000 square feet factory in Stafford, TX, where Optima vitamins, Optima CBD products, and skin care items will be produced. Additionally, I acquired a factory in Dubai that has been operating for many years, manufacturing soaps, detergents, and other products.
While deeply rooted in my Jordanian heritage, I have always been devoted to serving my second homeland, the United States of America, with utmost dedication.
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?
The journey was far from smooth, and I encountered several significant challenges along the way. Firstly, arriving in the United States with minimal funds posed a major obstacle. I had only few dollars on me, and it was crucial for me to manage that money wisely to sustain myself during the initial period. The scarcity of financial resources was a constant concern as I navigated the path towards establishing my life and career.
Language barriers proved to be another significant hurdle. When I first arrived, my command of the English language was limited. Communicating effectively and comprehending the intricacies of a new culture proved to be a steep learning curve. However, I was determined to overcome this obstacle and dedicated myself to learning English. Through consistent effort, practice, and immersive experiences, I gradually improved my language skills, which played a vital role in my personal and professional growth.
Furthermore, my lack of knowledge about business was an additional challenge. I had to learn the fundamentals of entrepreneurship and financial management through hands-on experience. As I worked in various industries and started my own businesses, I acquired valuable insights into the intricacies of business operations, customer relations, and strategic decision-making. Over time, I honed my business acumen and developed the necessary skills to thrive in the dynamic world of entrepreneurship.
Despite the obstacles and struggles I faced, I approached each challenge as an opportunity for growth and learning. It was through perseverance, determination, and a willingness to adapt that I managed to overcome these difficulties and carve a path towards success.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about Optima International Brands?
Optima International Brands serves as the umbrella company for a diverse range of entities, each specializing in unique products and services. Here are some key aspects and offerings of our various brands:
1-Optima Global Financial: Having achieved considerable success in various ventures, I ventured into the finance industry in 1994 and established Optima Global Financial. Specializing in IPOs (Initial Public Offerings) and venture capital, our company exclusively works with highly profitable companies on a monthly basis. With offices spanning London, Zurich, Hong Kong, Dubai, Jordan, and Brazil, we provide comprehensive assistance to clients in areas such as large-scale buyouts, recapitalization, reverse mergers, and private equity funding.
2- Optima Vitamins: While my primary focus lies in the financial sector, I recognized the importance of daily supplements and embarked on a journey to find a truly effective vitamin. After extensive research, I discovered the concept of compounded vitamins. Collaborating with experienced doctors and pharmacists, we formulated a line of 21 vitamins designed to maximize absorption and provide essential nutrients. These vitamins were initially developed for personal use but have gained popularity among friends and family due to their exceptional results.
3- Optima CBD: Optima CBD focuses on developing all-natural CBD products to address everyday issues such as aches, soreness, and sleep problems. Our carefully crafted CBD-infused offerings aim to provide effective solutions. We pride ourselves on sourcing high-quality ingredients and adhering to FDA certifications.
4- Optima Skin Care: Optima Skin Care is dedicated to creating all-natural skincare products tailored to individual needs. Our comprehensive range of products includes bath bombs, moisturizing creams, and more, all infused with CBD to promote skin health and relaxation. Our products are proudly formulated in the U.S.A. and adhere to FDA certifications.
The Optima International Brands portfolio also encompasses additional entities, including Optima Pets, Optima Fragrances, Optima Manufacturing, Optima Vitamin Water, Optima Honey, Optima Holdings, and HDI2500.
Overall, what sets our brands apart is our commitment to delivering quality products and services that prioritize customer satisfaction and well-being. Whether it’s providing exceptional vitamins, nurturing healthy skin, or offering financial expertise, we strive to make a positive impact. We take pride in our dedication to natural formulations, meticulous research, and our mission to improve people’s lives.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
One of my favorite childhood memories was the responsibility I had in taking care of my siblings and our family farm. Every morning, I would saddle up on our trusty donkey and lead our cows to the feeding area. I vividly remember the tranquility of those early mornings, surrounded by the lush green fields and the gentle sounds of nature. It was my duty to ensure the well-being of our animals and contribute to our self-sufficiency as a family. I took great pride intending to the farm and providing for my loved ones. Those moments of responsibility and connection with nature shaped my character and instilled in me a deep appreciation for hard work and family values.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://optimainternationalbrands.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/optimavitamins/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Optimavitamins
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/optimavitamins
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@optimavitamins4703
Image Credits
Christian Pena
