To My Brother and Lifelong Supporter on His Birthday

Happy Birthday, Hadi!

Today, I celebrate not only my youngest brother but also one of the most supportive and generous people in my life. I’ll never forget August 2001, when V-Empower, Inc. was running on fumes, and you stepped in to help by writing that first check. You may not have fully believed we’d still be here 24 years later, but your faith in me at that crucial moment has always meant the world. I vividly remember that meeting with you and your friend, answering all those questions about our future without exaggerating returns. If you’d invested in Amazon instead, those 1,200 shares would have been worth millions by now! Yet, your willingness to stand by me then—and many times since—is priceless.

Your contributions didn’t stop there. You were instrumental in launching Golfflyover increasing production with your team from 10 to 200 golf courses per week and reducing production costs from $50 to $10 per course. Through it all, you’ve excelled at Verizon for nearly two decades, sharing your expertise, mentoring young people, and guiding new immigrants, including many in our family. You have a unique gift for balancing personal success with generosity toward others.

From your start at age 15, earning $2 an hour at a garment shop in Landover Hills, to becoming the accomplished leader you are today, you’ve shown resilience, integrity, and selflessness. We’re all incredibly grateful for your kindness and unwavering support.

May the years ahead be filled with joy and happiness, and may you continue to touch and help friends, family, and anyone who crosses your path.