Thriving during a crisis is a challenging feat for any leader. Aline Kamakian shares how she encountered the difficult decisions that many faced in the hospitality industry due to the pandemic –then dealing with the destruction of one of her restaurants during the massive explosion in Beirut, Lebanon, in August of 2020. Aline reveals how she adapted to the crises her business endured, and offers very real-world advice for leaders gleaned from those experiences.
Aline Kamakian began her career as an insurance broker at the age of 18 to put herself through college. She graduated with a double major with a Masters in Finance and Marketing. Aline’s skills as an insurance broker allowed her to build one of Lebanon’s top 9 brokerage firms. All through her successes, Aline never forgot her love for food; more importantly, she never forgot her Armenian roots. In June 2003, she opened “Mayrig,” an avant-guardiste traditional Armenian restaurant to introduce the forgotten flavors of ancient Armenia to all those who appreciate homey, healthy and tasty food. Aline was also voted Woman Entrepreneur of the Year 2014 in the Brilliant Lebanese Awards. She is a board member of the Lebanese Franchise Association as well as a board member of the Lebanese League of Women in Business, and a successful candidate of the 2014 Vital Voices Fellowship Program.
