Celebrating Afghan Entrepreneurs and New Opportunities in St. Louis

On July 14, the Hall of Nations at the International Institute of St. Louis was filled with celebration, pride, and community spirit as we gathered for the Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant event.

This special event recognized the resilience, hard work, and vision of Afghan entrepreneurs who are building new lives and creating opportunities in St. Louis. We were honored to celebrate two outstanding grant winners: Iceland Juice, led by entrepreneur Sadam Omer Stankizai, and Rasa Cleaning Solution, led by Nematullah Hussaini.

Nematullah Hussaini recently relocated from Texas to St. Louis through the Afghan Support Program, and today he is one of the proud recipients of a $20,000 business grant. His journey is a powerful example of what can happen when determination meets opportunity, support, and community partnership.

The celebration brought together entrepreneurs, community leaders, Jerry Schlichter—funder of the Afghan Support Program—leadership from the International Institute of St. Louis, representatives from the Office of New Americans under the Cara Spencer Mayor of the City of St. Louis, and community members who have recently relocated to St. Louis from other states and cities.

As part of the event, a letter of appreciation and traditional Afghan clothing were presented to Jerry Schlichter on behalf of the Afghan Community of St. Louis, in honor of his dedicated efforts through the Afghan Support Program. These gifts recognized his vision and lasting impact on the Afghan community in St. Louis, as well as his commitment to helping make St. Louis a welcoming home for New Americans and a city of progress, opportunity, and shared prosperity.

More than an award ceremony, this event was a reminder of the strength, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit within the Afghan community. These grants are helping small business owners turn their dreams into reality while contributing to the economic and cultural growth of our region.

Congratulations to Sadam Omer Stankizai and Nematullah Hussaini on this important achievement. We are proud to stand with Afghan entrepreneurs as they continue to grow, lead, and inspire in St. Louis.