December 13, 2021
Today we’d like to introduce you to Jay Mawas.
Hi Jay, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.My name is Jay Mawas. I was born in London, raised in Ghana and Lebanon and now I reside in the US. Not the usual backstory that someone might have but it is mine and I own it with pride. A bit of my education background, I went to the American University of Beirut in Lebanon (Freshman year) where I did my engineering prerequisites while being a student athlete playing Rugby prior to transferring to the University of Minnesota (Sophomore year to Senior year). My educational path switched upon being accepted to the Carlson School of Management where I focused on obtaining a degree in Management Information Systems.
Growing up I always had an entrepreneurial spirit. In middle school, I would sharpen my peers’ pencils for what used to be equivalent to $2, and in high school until my junior year of college, I had a meal prep business where I would personally plan out nutritious meals to my clients on a weekly basis, cook them and deliver them. I have always believed that I am able to provide exceptional service to anyone who is a client of mine, as a result of that belief, I found myself transitioning into Commercial Real Estate where I work with business to help them get their foot in the door by either owning their own real estate or establishing their business by obtaining a space and helping them through the process from A-Z.
Being able to apply the skills I learned at one of the most prestigious business schools was a defining characteristic when I decided to enter the Commercial Real Estate industry where what separates you is your work ethic, creative skills and most importantly the value you bring to your client.
Work aside, I love to cook. Cooking has been a passion ever since I was a child. It brings out the creativity in me and it is, as people say, one of my love languages. If I have cooked for you, just know you have that special place in my heart. Peace and tranquility are also important to me since I work in a very dynamic and fast paced environment. My favorite nights are those where I really wind down in the comfort of my own home and take some time to myself to reflect and assess where I currently am in life during that certain point in time. I am a firm believer in the law of attraction and I try to take those nights to be grateful for everything I have and realize the blessings in life. I also like to post motivational content on Instagram because I believe in making a change. I believe that out there is someone that I can touch with my content and help get them on the right path to self betterment.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?Every path always has its challenges. For me, one of the challenges was the fact that I had to build a network of influential people with little ties or recognition in a big city compared to where I was from. Another challenge was trying to navigate in an industry that depends on a strong network and experience. Not having both of those out of college was a big disadvantage but in turn a blessing since it promoted a hunger and drive that allowed me to gain both qualities exponentially.
Another challenge I face is being away from family. Coming from a foreign country where family is literally everything. I spent 17 years of my life being close to family. Not just physically close but also emotionally close. My family members were my best friends growing up and how I am as a man now is a true testament to how influential they were on me, especially my older cousins who I truly consider my first “best friends”. Having to navigate without the strong support system is a big challenge, but one in know I was prepared for because of my upbringing.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?I am a commercial real estate agent. My specialty is 3rd party tenant representation in the acquisition and leasing of commercial property. I would say I am building a reputation of working with retail-oriented clients.
I am proud of the ability I have to make a difference in someone’s life by helping them achieve their goals and help them take that leap of faith. What sets me apart is that just like my clients, I had a goal. A goal which was to come to the US and make a mark by helping others reach their goal, especially those that have to think they are alone in their journey. I understand their desire to make it happen because it was the same desire I had, and if I was able to accomplish it then it is only right I help someone as well.
The firm I am a part of is a small powerhouse that not only operates in Minnesota but also in states across the US. I am glad that I chose this route because this firm supports my goal, ambitions and dreams and I find it very important to have a team that is there for you when push comes to shove!
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?One important lesson that really helped me attain a great push in my career is that your next day is truly not guaranteed. Before Covid hit, life in my opinion was stagnant. The pandemic has taught me to think outside the box, has pushed me to expand my horizons and has encouraged me to learn new things that give me an edge on my competition as well as an edge on life. I would say it was sort of an epiphany that got me off my feet and forced me to tap into unseen potential.
Contact Info:
Email: jay@caspianrealty.com
Website: www.jaymawas.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jay.mawas/
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