Akram Alhamidi did not follow a traditional business route. He moved quickly. He trusted his instincts. And he built something real.
From a small town in Mississippi to owning and operating gas stations, Akram’s story is about early responsibility, continued focus, and learning by doing. His career reflects a growing group of young entrepreneurs who are entering business directly from their own experience rather than textbooks.
This spotlight looks at how Akram built a gas station and how he approaches leadership in a hands-on industry.
Grew up in Petal, Mississippi
Akram Alhamidi grew up in Petal, Mississippi.
It’s a close-knit city where people know each other and routines are important.
In high school, football played a big role in his life. Sport taught structure and discipline. It also showed him the value of teamwork and consistency.
“Through football, I learned to show up even when you don’t feel like it,” says Akram. “That stays with you.”
In 2020 he completed his high school diploma. For many students, this year has been a sign of uncertainty. For Akram it was a crucial point.
Instead of waiting, he kept going.
Choosing business over the traditional route
After graduating, Akram didn’t take any time off.
Entering the world of work was not easy for him.
He founded his own company.
“I knew I wanted to build something for myself,” he says. “I didn’t want to wait years to get started.”
This mindset led to the creation of a gas station company focused on everyday service and reliability. Gas stations are not glamorous. They are ready for use. They require attention every day.
He liked that.
“It’s a business that people rely on,” Akram explains. “You can’t cut corners. You have to be present.”
Opening a gas station
Opening a gas station came with pressure.
Akram was young. He was independent. And he had to learn quickly.
There wasn’t a long start-up phase. From day one, he dealt with real customers, real schedules, and real problems.
“You learn quickly when your name is on the door,” he says. “If something goes wrong, you’re the one who fixes it.”
He took care of the operations directly. He learned how to manage time, stay organized and keep everything running smoothly. Over time, the company grew into a gas station chain.
The growth didn’t come about through shortcuts. It came from repetition.
“Doing the little things right every day adds up,” says Akram.
Leadership in a practical industry
Gas stations are often overlooked as businesses.
But they are complex.
They include logistics, personnel, maintenance and customer service. Akram approaches leadership with one simple rule: stay committed.
“I’d like to know what’s going on,” he says. “In a business like this you can’t manage from a distance.”
For him, leadership means responsibility, not authority. He values being reliable and consistent.
“When people know what to expect from you, things go better,” explains Akram.
This mindset helps him manage both people and processes. It also helps him stay grounded as the company grows.
Daily habits and balance
Outside of work, Akram keeps things simple.
He enjoys watching movies and spending time with friends.
This balance is important to him.
“The business can take over if you let it,” he says. “You still need time to reset.”
These moments outside of work help him stay focused at work. It does not completely separate life and business. He sees them as connected.
“When you are mentally clear, you make better decisions,” notes Akram.
Learning by doing
Akram’s career has been shaped by experience, not theory.
He didn’t wait until he felt ready.
“You don’t learn everything before you start,” he says. “You learn by starting.”
This approach defines how he sees growth. He believes that progress comes through action and adaptation.
Mistakes are part of the process. The same applies to responsibility.
“If something doesn’t work, you fix it and move on,” explains Akram.
Look at the big picture
As the company continues to operate and expand, Akram remains focused on execution. He doesn’t chase attention. It builds stability.
“The continued existence of the business is important to me,” he says. “That’s the goal.”
His story reflects a broader shift in entrepreneurship. Younger owners are moving into important industries and leading with presence rather than glitz.
Akram Alhamidi represents this change.
He started early.
He remained committed.
And he was building something real day by day.
