Mehzabin Shaikh’s stall at the Boston Farmers Market in Copley Square stands out among the bustling vendors. Known for its tantalizing aroma of spice-infused curries and freshly cooked Indian food, Shaikh’s business, Guru the Caterer, has become a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. While many flock to her booth for the food, few know the inspiring story behind the woman who started it all.
Shaikh co-owns Guru the Caterer, a restaurant and catering service with locations in Somerville and Downtown Crossing. However, Shaikh offers more than just delicious meals. She provides a platform for empowerment by offering job training, language lessons, and life skills to her employees, many of whom are immigrants with limited English proficiency and education.
What is Shaikh’s Background and How Did She Get Started?
Shaikh’s journey to success began in a small village in rural Gujarat, India, where her family struggled to make ends meet. Their chicken farm was their primary source of income, but it barely sustained the family’s needs. With few resources and financial difficulties, Shaikh never had the opportunity for formal education, and she worked on the farm alongside her parents. Despite the hardships, her family saw an opportunity in migrating to America, hoping for a better life.
In 1998, Shaikh, at just 12 years old, moved with her family to Boston. The cultural transition was challenging, especially given the gender roles expected of women in her Gujarati-Muslim community, where women were typically expected to stay home and take care of the household. Shaikh’s resilience, however, pushed her forward.
“My mom never had been working. So, I’m the first person in my house who actually obtained a job at the earliest age possible,” Shaikh explained. This job marked the beginning of her journey into the workforce, where she learned to adapt and persevere.
What Challenges Did Shaikh Face Upon Moving to the U.S.?
Arriving in the U.S., Shaikh and her family were faced with language barriers, cultural differences, and financial struggles. The death of her father shortly after their arrival in America left Shaikh with the responsibility of supporting her mother and two younger siblings. Despite the challenges, she remained determined.
Her journey wasn’t easy, but with the help of dedicated school teachers who recognized her potential, Shaikh overcame the language barrier and succeeded in her studies. “My English was less, but there were these teachers in my school who helped me when I was struggling, and that created the opportunity for me,” said Shaikh. Today, Shaikh holds a bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory technology from UMass Lowell and is licensed to practice.
How Did Shaikh Transition to Owning Guru the Caterer?
In 2015, Shaikh and her partner decided to start a business and purchased Guru the Caterer. The restaurant, known for its flavorful Indian dishes, had a predominantly female workforce, many of whom were immigrants from India with little to no formal education or English-speaking skills.
After taking over the restaurant, Shaikh quickly realized the lack of opportunities for her employees. “I realized there was no security for these women. They were working at my restaurant, but if I didn’t own it or didn’t want to keep them, they would have just lost their livelihood,” she said.
With her background and personal experiences in mind, Shaikh set out to make a difference. She saw an opportunity to empower her workers and offer them the skills they needed to improve their lives.
How Did Shaikh Empower Her Workers?
Shaikh’s approach to business went beyond simply managing a restaurant. She took on the responsibility of training her employees, many of whom lacked basic skills such as speaking English or understanding health regulations required in the restaurant industry.
She began by teaching her staff English and helping them navigate the complex world of health regulations. Shaikh also supported her employees in obtaining certifications, including the ServSafe® Food and Beverage Safety Training. This certification program, administered by the U.S. National Restaurant Association, is crucial for ensuring safe food handling practices in the restaurant industry.
In addition to these practical skills, Shaikh also assisted her workers with official paperwork, including health insurance applications and federal forms, helping them feel more confident and secure in their positions.
What Makes Shaikh’s Approach Unique?
Shaikh’s business model is not just about making food; it’s about creating a supportive environment where people, particularly immigrants, can thrive. Her efforts to help employees overcome language barriers and gain essential work skills make her a standout figure in her community.
“I hire people who don’t get hired by others,” she said. Her goal is to provide job opportunities for those who face discrimination or fear rejection due to language barriers or a lack of qualifications.
Shaikh’s approach has made her a role model for both her employees and the community. She has turned her small business into a source of empowerment, offering her workers the tools they need to succeed both inside and outside of the restaurant.
How Has Shaikh Adapted to Challenges During the COVID-19 Pandemic?
Like many small business owners, Shaikh had to adapt her operations when the coronavirus pandemic hit. With the closure of the farmers market in the spring, Shaikh shifted her focus to catering and took all necessary precautions to protect her staff and customers.
Shaikh provided paid leave for older workers and those with long commutes. She also made adjustments to ensure that only local staff were working, and she personally handled no-contact deliveries from their Somerville location. Customers were encouraged to order online through delivery apps like Grubhub or via the restaurant’s website.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Shaikh’s commitment to her employees remained unwavering. She continued to provide a sense of security and stability for her staff, even in difficult times.
What Does the Future Hold for Shaikh and Guru the Caterer?
Looking ahead, Shaikh has big plans for the future of Guru the Caterer. She hopes to expand her restaurant and catering services and continue to support immigrant communities through job training and empowerment programs. For Shaikh, the future is not just about growing a successful business; it’s about helping others achieve their potential, just as she did with the help of others.
“I know how hard it is to start a new life. And if I can help them in that journey, I can make a difference and that’s all that matters,” she said.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Empowerment
Mehzabin Shaikh’s story is a testament to resilience, empathy, and the power of community. Through Guru the Caterer, she has turned a restaurant into a place of opportunity, where women can find not just employment, but a path to self-improvement and a better life. Her journey is a reminder that sometimes, a small act of kindness and support can change the course of someone’s life forever. Shaikh’s dedication to her workers and her community proves that success isn’t just about financial gain—it’s about making a positive impact on the lives of others.
