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MENA Business Committee

Mission

The MENA Business Committee serves as a vital bridge between MENA business owners, entrepreneurs, and the Flint & Genesee Chamber, working to strengthen the economic presence of MENA businesses in the region. Its primary mission is to identify and address the unique needs, challenges, and opportunities within the MENA business sector and leverage that knowledge to drive economic growth and development.

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Scholarship Opportunity: Anthony J. Mansour Scholarship

  • This annual Arab American Heritage Council scholarship is awarded to qualified students based on the criteria described below:

    1. The student must be a resident of Genesee County.
    2. The student must be able to demonstrate Arab American heritage.
    3. The application must be received no later than October 24th, 2025 at 11:59pm.
    4. Each candidate must provide a transcript of grades for high school junior and senior years; college applicants must also include college transcripts for years attending university or college.
    5. Scholarship winners are required to attend the Ensure The Legacy Banquet - date and location to be determined.
For any questions, please reach out to us at our email staff@aahcflint.org

MENA History & Inspiration

  • In 2022, the Arab American Heritage Council (AAHC) played a key role in supporting the Count MENA In campaign, a national effort to fight for MENA inclusion and ensure our communities are recognized in demographic data. Understanding the importance of connecting national advocacy to local action, the AAHC sought to mobilize partners in Flint and Genesee County to address the challenges facing MENA communities on the ground.
  • For generations, small businesses and entrepreneurs have contributed to Flint’s local economy, creating jobs and providing essential goods and services. MENA-owned businesses, in particular, have played a significant role in this landscape. By the 1980s, Arab immigrants owned 98% of all grocery stores in Flint, demonstrating their economic presence and commitment to serving the community. Yet, despite this deep-rooted presence, the contributions of MENA entrepreneurs have often gone undocumented, leaving their stories and impact overlooked. Without proper recognition, MENA business owners continue to face barriers to funding, resources, and opportunities for growth.
  • To address this, the AAHC, in partnership with the Flint & Genesee Chamber, launched the MENA Business Committee: a local initiative dedicated to supporting MENA entrepreneurs, advocating for economic opportunities, and ensuring our businesses have the tools they need to thrive. By strengthening our MENA business community in Flint and Genesee County, we are not only recognizing their contributions but also driving long-term economic growth and sustainability for the entire region.

Committee Objectives

  • Creating a Strong Business Network – Building connections among MENA professionals to foster collaboration and growth.
  • Providing Business Education & Resources – Offering training in marketing, financial literacy, and legal compliance to support business success.
  • Enhancing Visibility & Outreach – Expanding marketing efforts and opportunities to promote MENA-owned businesses.
  • Showcasing MENA Businesses – Organizing expos and events that highlight MENA businesses and their contributions.
  • Advocacy – Working to ensure MENA businesses have a voice in local and regional economic policies and initiatives.

Job Openings with Local MENA Businesses

  • Barista at Qamaria Yemeni Coffee Co. in Grand Blanc 
    - Job Responsibilities include taking orders, making drinks, cleaning, etc.
    - Starting pay is $12/hour
    - Must be available on Weekdays

    - Contact 810-775-7535 with your resume and availability if you are interested

  • Team Member at Vara Juice in Grand Blanc 
    - Looking for two team members (18+) with reliable transportation
    - Starting pay is $13/hour with tips. Room for a raise in the future
    - Must be available to work on the weekends, have a flexible schedule

    - Contact 810-730-1717 with your resume and availability if you are interested

  • Store Associate at Sahara Food in Grand Blanc 
    - Job Description includes cleaning, prep work, stocking, and working as a cashier
    - Pay will commensurate with experience
    - Must be available on Fridays, 10:00am-3:30pm
    - Stop by any weekday for an immediate interview
    - Contact 810-938-0055 if you are interested

Upcoming Meetings, Events, & Workshops

How to Join

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Contact & Support

To learn more about the committee, please reach out to the AAHC at staff@aahcflint.org