Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Razia Qureshi-Shalami, Founder and COO of ZAR, located in Plano, TX, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
ZAR is a veteran-run family brand providing superior-quality hemp-derived cannabis products. We are happy to help so many communities through our retail storefronts and online platforms. We take pride in providing affordable hemp-derived cannabis therapy (Canna Therapy) to our veterans, their spouses, as well as active duty service members by giving them a 22% discount on a daily basis.
Our certified cannabis consultants truly care about your health and wellness and will help you find the specific product for your unique needs and will educate you on its healing ability. Join the family and experience the difference with ZAR. ZAR, Where People Come First.
Tell us about yourself
I am a native Texan born in good old Denton, Texas, and have lived in Texas my entire life. I had the honor of being part of the first graduating class of Billy Ryan High School, followed by receiving my BBA at Southern Methodist University. I pursued my passion for healthcare and marketing by working in the pharmaceutical and biotechnological space for nearly 20 years. This is where I learned my ability to deepen relationships and the true meaning of credibility and authenticity. I'm excited to actually be able to utilize my marketing major and real-world experience to good use within the ZAR Organization.
My family is my heart, and they keep me striving to be the best. Being a mother of 2 young boys is an absolute joy with a lot of work behind the scenes, but having the support of a loving husband is priceless. My blessing is Asad, and I could never do this without him. He works tirelessly for his family, and he's an amazing husband and devoted father. Zayn, Tanveer, and I are truly the lucky ones. Through our love and sacrifice, we continue to grow ZAR. My wish is to show people that you can make an impact on your own quality of life if you take a chance to understand the natural medicinal value of this beautiful plant called Hemp.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I changed my life with Canna Therapy, and it's possible for so many others. For me, it's personal because I was able to take on my Rheumatoid Arthritis for 20 years and drastically improve my quality of life by improving my mobility and getting off of harsh medications. It's a sense of freedom like no other, and the joy of making that a realization for others is humbling.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I would say it's the various dynamics of people's personalities and learning that there is a generational gap in work ethic.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Hustle harder every single day and never give up.
- Accept that a 'to-do list' is always ongoing.
- People will not care until you show them that you care.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.zarwellness.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZAR-Wellness-102672815957429
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zarwellness/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ZarWellness
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/razia-qureshi-shalami-04703b8/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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