We had the good fortune of connecting with Sameen Ahmad Co-Founder and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sameen Ahmad, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I wanted the independence of creating an environment where through the training of others, I could continue to build upon-myself. I wanted an inclusive environment that treats women and men fairly and equally.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I had the best start which was my grueling but long-term rewarding beginnings in Investment Banking in the Big Apple. The work was challenging but set a great foundation to lead me to where I am today. I learned the basics of a company’s financial working statements and how to value the worth of a business. After spending a little bit of time on Wall Street, I headed to work at Starwood Resorts which is now known at the Marriott Group. My first foray in hospitality led me to travel globally opening spas at hotels worldwide. One afternoon in New York, I was fortunate enough to meet Beau Armstrong, the CEO of Stratus Properties. Beau believed in me and allowed me to lead the concepting and operations of the W Austin Away Spa which brought me to Austin. 11 years ago, I found a home in Austin that I’ll never leave.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
First off, we’d start on South Congress and hit all the fun shops, grab coffee and manana before sitting down at the Saint Cecelia. After a nice stroll we’d cross into downtown Austin to have a declicious meal at Comedor, crafted drinks at Garage and then a late night dance sesh at Latchkey + late night snacks at Smokin’ Rose on the East Side. Recovery brunch the next day would be full of tacos and aqua fresca with some pool at Deep Eddy Cabaret.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I love this question! Thank you for not making it all about me. I want to thank my Mikaila Strycharz on my team. Mikaila single handily makes sure all of our projects stay on time, on track and that no detail is missed. She’s truly a gentle giant in the workplace. We are so very luck to have her on our side.

Website: hankanded.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hankanded/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sameen-ahmad-8b993b17/

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.