Today we’d like to introduce you to Shamsa Hashi.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Shamsa. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Five brothers, three sisters, two parents, 11 mouths. Someone was always hungry. I began cooking and playing with recipes when I was 12 years old. Once I hit high school, I began to post meals and desserts I cooked on social media (IG, Snapchat, etc.). People have always told me that I should begin selling plates, but that went through one ear and out the other.
Now, years later, while being a full-time student at Georgia State University, the conversation and comments still continue. “Sham, lemme get a plate. I’ll pay whatever.” I already had a full-time job and never thought I had the time to cook for extra people outside the daily 11. However, as I clocked in every day at work, I was unsettled, it didn’t feel right. I’m here breaking my back and skipping lunch breaks to further the mission, bring in clientele, and adding dollar signs to another man’s dream while barely receiving a fraction of that check. Nope. Not anymore.
Prior to this someone very dear to my heart bought up conversations about a possible side hustle, but nothing came to mind. He tried asking about different talents, passions… yet again nothing came to mind. The only passion I could think of was that of which I am known: advocacy within the law for those that are disadvantaged.
While we were having this conversation, funny enough, I took offense. “Why would I need a side hustle? I have tunnel vision. I wanna change the world, not sell lashes.”
I didn’t see it then, but I do now. I won’t name him completely, but I’ll use his initials: T.H. gave me that extra push that I needed. I may have took offense then, but I am ever so grateful for this man.
Not too long after our conversation & after pondering on why I was helping to build up someone else instead of investing in myself, I did. I called my two best friends at around 1 am and they both supported me to the fullest extent.
We created plans that exact night, from the packaging to delivery times, and the very next day I was in business.
I believe that food is not something to be played with. Have you ever been to a restaurant, ordered food and were not satisfied? With YKTVcooking, we make sure that NEVER happens, how you may ask? Cause baby, we know the vibes!
Has it been a smooth road?
Though I’m still fairly new to the game, no. Keep in mind, I’ve been cooking for free since I was 12, so now, I had to put a price on my food? How much should I tell people? Is it too expensive? Am I selling myself short?
Secondly, demand was building up. In addition to the plates that have been ordered, now, I was receiving orders in bulk. 10 plates for 10 different people & 3 pans of lasagna. Some for families, some for jobs. Fitness gurus and trainers along with their clients now were asking about monthly and weekly meal preps
I’d catch myself moving too fast, overworking, and stressing myself to the t. Here I was cooking for half the city of Atlanta and by the time I was ready to sleep, I realized I hadn’t eaten all day and didn’t have the energy to get up either.
And lastly, I wish I would have started sooner! If there’s one thing I’ve learned it’s to not underestimate yourself and if you know you’re good at something and others know it too, run towards it. Invest in your personal 9-5, not someone else’s.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
You Know The Vibes Cooking is a food service. With meals ranging from Fried Rice with sweet n spicy teriyaki chicken served in a freshly cut pineapple, to Garlic Salmon and creamy pasta, to desserts such as our famous Nutella Oreo fudge cakes, you’ll never be unsatisfied.
Because I had to cook for so many people, I had to find common ground. Something for the whole family. So, if mom doesn’t feel like cooking tonight and you’re tired of pizza, well.. you know the vibes! Dm @yktvcooking_ or call Sham directly!
We also have specials such as Salmon Saturday’s and are well known and Poppin Sunday Brunch! Because Sham never disappoints, you’ll never have to eat out and be unsatisfied again.
With college kids being so on the go, and missing home, sometimes all you need is a home-cooked meal. YKTV Cooking will not only fill your stomach but will make you feel loved.
Also, important to include that YKTVcooking has both pick-up and delivery services available!
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Yes! My clientele is big & people are always hungry!
Pricing:
- All meals range from $10-$20
Contact Info:
- Phone: 4049036905
- Instagram: @YKTVCooking_
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