Kazi Mannan, Restauranteur

Kazi Mannan’s journey from adversity to generosity began in the heart of a small village in Pakistan. Young Mannan’s upbringing was marred by the harsh realities of poverty and uncertainty. Growing up on a farm with nine siblings, his father’s meager teacher’s salary strained to feed the family. Mannan vividly recalls the gnawing hunger that haunted his days, unsure of when or where his next meal would come from. Despite their own struggles, Mannan’s mother never hesitated to share their meager provisions with neighbors in need. His young heart puzzled at her generosity – “Why give away what we lack?” he wondered. Her simple yet profound response, “God gives you more and you give back,” planted a seed in Mannan’s conscience that would later bloom into a powerful force for good.

In 1996, armed with determination and hope, Mannan embarked on a journey to the United States, seeking a better future. From the humble beginnings of double shifts at a gas station to later driving a limousine, Mannan steadily climbed the ladder of success. Yet, amidst his rising fortunes, the echo of his mother's words reverberated within him. The seed of giving that she had sown in his heart began to blossom. With hard-earned savings, Mannan realized his dream of owning a limousine company, but his vision extended beyond personal success. Remembering his promise to give back, he envisioned a restaurant – Sakina Halal Grill – that would serve not only delicious meals but also nourish the souls of the less fortunate.

Since its inception, the Sakina Halal Grill has become a beacon of hope and compassion, providing over 80,000 free meals to those in need, an average of 16,000 meals annually. Beyond the walls of his restaurant, Mannan’s generosity extends to the homeless during Ramadan, where he hosts iftars in Franklin Square, uniting people from diverse backgrounds over the shared experience of breaking bread and fostering community spirit.