Fawad Hekmaty

From a very young age, Fawad Hekmaty was no stranger to adversity. Born in Kabul, Afghanistan, he was thrust into an environment of turmoil and chaos. When his father, a high-ranking official in the Afghan army, met a tragic fate due to the ongoing conflict, the trajectory of his life took a sudden and painful turn. It wasn’t long before he and his family sought refuge in Pakistan. Here, they were newcomers and had to grapple with new cultural norms and the intricacies of a new language.

His story is not just about hardships but overcoming them. His indomitable spirit was evident when, in 1989, his family received asylum in the U.S. Settling in Whitestone, New York, was no walk in the park. Once again, he faced the challenge of assimilating into a new culture and learning a new language. Despite these challenges, including facing prejudices and bullying, he didn’t let them deter him. Instead, they fueled his drive.

His entrepreneurial spirit eventually led him to open a coffee shop in Manhattan. Not just any coffee shop, though. His cafe is a testament to his journey - from Kabul to Whitestone - and reflects his deep-seated Afghan roots. It's more than just a place for a caffeine fix; it's a community hub, a slice of Afghanistan in the heart of New York.

But there’s more to him than meets the eye. Outside of his business endeavors, Fawad possesses a rich tapestry of talents and interests. He has a flair for graphic design and video editing. His artistic prowess doesn't stop there; he's also an accomplished singer, with the soulful melodies of Afghanistan resonating in every note.

His generosity knows no bounds. He ardently supports the Dar El Taqwa Islamic Center of Flushing, Queens. However, his acts of kindness aren’t restricted to organized charities. Every day, he ensures that people experiencing homelessness and less fortunate get a warm meal from his coffee shop, embodying true benevolence.

Fawad Hekmaty's life is a resilience, adaptability, and kindness masterclass. The adversities he faced didn't break him; they shaped him, crafting a man of character and compassion. Indeed, his life attests that trouble, when faced with courage and determination, truly breeds feeling.