By Alexandra Liu
Many business sectors have been drastically impacted by the current pandemic, and the food service industry has been no exception. Students at the River Hill High School Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) chapter have recognized this problem, and decided to help out a local business; Through a mutually beneficial partnership, as part of the Partnership with a Local Business project.
It is estimated that the food service industry have lost close to 300 billion dollars in sales within the past year due to COVID-19 restrictions. River Hill FBLA students wanted to do what they could to help out a local food-business in need.
Koshary by MISTEKA, a vegan Egyptian restaurant in the community, has been no stranger to the business hardships during the coronavirus pandemic. The owner, Mrs. Iman Moussa, has worked tirelessly to keep her business afloat. She spoke at a workshop for the chapter, and shared some of her stories about running a business during the pandemic. The students were moved by her testimonials, and formed personal connections with Moussa’s business. They wanted to support the business through troubled times in addition to benefiting from the valuable experience a partnership would entail.
Moussa recounted that she “couldn’t be more proud of our partnership with [River Hill] FBLA. They worked with our team to create a River Hill inspired dish. They also helped with marketing, community outreach, boosting sales and spreading the word about our plant powered brand. We value their professionalism and work ethic and look forward to cooperating with them again on future projects.”
The students devised a plan to create a line of River Hill themed dishes and market them to members of the River Hill community, with the mission of spreading the word about this amazing restaurant. They met with the business owner in January to discuss the exciting new dishes. They chose the names “Hawk Wrap” and “Hill Grill Bowl,” inspired by the school’s name and mascot. They then proceeded to utilize their knowledge and experience with social media to further promote the dishes and Moussa’s business.
Along with the dish, the chapter also created a raffle, which was also heavily advertised on social media, for members to raise money for the restaurant. Overall, the campaign was successful and received great turnout. These students are an inspiring example of how the new generation will use their experience with technology as a tool to navigate through the ever-increasing digital presence in the current age.