Today we’d like to introduce you to Hana Worede.
Hana, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I started this company a little over five years ago where my inspiration stemmed from a missionary trip I had taken upon graduation from dental school, whereas a practicing dentist I worked in several clinics and was exposed to what was truly lacking back home. Upon my return, I decided to start this company with hopes of having the means to give back. I taught a winery out in west Texas how to make and perfect the wine and it’s quite exquisite! I worked with The Richards Group in Dallas, an extremely talented group who created the Bilquis bottle design. My partner, Mehret Gebre Sims, approached me with this wonderful idea and through hard work and dedication we are here today.
Currently, Bilquis is experiencing a surge in its interest, spanning from numerous restaurants and locations across the state of Texas!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has been far from smooth. I can go on and on lol My partner, Mehret Gebre Sims, has an MBA and I’m a practicing dentist. Our fields of expertise are vastly different from the wine industry. We had to essentially teach ourselves EVERYTHING and on top of that manage our full-time jobs! Our faith, hard work, and passion have helped us push through. My advice would be to never give up on your dreams and to always expect obstacles/challenges. It’s inevitable. As long as you remain strong, prayerful and hopeful will you persevere.
Bilquis – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Bilquis is an authentic Ethiopian brand of tej that recently launched and I’m super excited to introduce it! Bilquis is my life and my passion. In creating Bilquis, I have an opportunity to not only share this special cultural gift with the world but to also do good beyond the glass-sharing the selfless, open-handed, and giving the spirit of my culture. With every bottle sold, I plan to give back.
Not only is it the oldest alcoholic beverage known to man but its delicious and has a beautiful story. Tradition believes Tej (Ethiopian Wine) was shared as a toast between the Queen of Sheba and King Solomon, the very same golden drink devoured in the royal festivity is the same drink we will now enjoy for generations to come!
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success to me isn’t the end goal but the journey taken. You don’t realize how much you’ve grown as a person when embarking on a project that tests your limits/strength. I believe if you stay faithful, humble, resilient and focused the sky’s the limit!
Contact Info:
- Website: bilquis-tej.com
- Phone: 214-223-8054
- Email: hana@bilquis-tej.com
- Instagram: bilquis_tej
- Facebook: Bilquis_Tej
Image Credit:
The Richards Group, Fort Lion Studio
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