Henok Tesfaye: An Ethiopian American entrepreneurial success
It is widely believed that the "American dream" is easily attainable by anyone in the US. However, successful African immigrants who are usually known for not having good financial support systems, excellent financial literacy skills, access to capital, legacy name recognition, and exclusive mentorship opportunities that are easily available to non-minorities can attest to the fact that achieving their American dream wasn't easy.
In the Washington, DC area, Ethiopians are especially known for being entrepreneurs, especially in the restaurant, parking and security industries. One man who is ahead of the pack and stands out as a leader and employer to many is Ethiopian born DC Parking lot Czar, Henok Tesfaye.
I was recently opportuned to meet this inspiring and exceptionally busy Ethiopian born business mogul who is the President and CEO of U Street Parking Inc, a company which generates a sizeable amount of tax revenue for DC at the recent Young African Professionals meeting, which was held at his mother's magnificently decorated upscale Ethiopian cuisine restaurant, Etete Restaurant.