Biography of Ali Kan Treen: Founder of Khaas Food- Dining in the Dark- Entrepreneur
Journey of Ali Kan Treen
Ali Kan Treen, along with his sister Fizza Hussain,
co-founded Khaas Foodz, a catering brand with a unique and impactful mission.
Both Ali and Fizza lost their sight due to a genetic disorder called retinitis
pigmentosa, which causes gradual vision loss, eventually leading to complete
blindness. Despite facing the challenges of living without sight from a young
age, the siblings have never let their disability define them. Their shared
vision is to empower visually impaired individuals through culinary training,
enabling them to find independence and build careers in the food industry.
Dining in the Dark: A Sensory Experience
One of the standout projects of Khaas Foodz is their Dining
in the Dark experience, where guests enjoy a meal in complete darkness. This
concept, which is popular internationally, creates a unique atmosphere where
diners rely entirely on their senses of taste, smell, touch, and hearing,
heightening their culinary experience. Ali and Fizza aim to offer an immersive
dining experience that helps people better understand the world of the blind,
while also promoting the idea that food can be enjoyed more deeply when one
sense is removed.
A Meaningful Mission
The concept behind Dining in the Dark is not only about providing an unforgettable dining experience but also about creating social impact. The project is designed to give blind individuals the opportunity to learn culinary skills and gain employment in the food industry. Ali and Fizza's partnership with various NGOs enables them to offer training to visually impaired people, helping them develop skills that will empower them to become independent, self-sufficient individuals.
Biography of Ali Kan Treen: Founder of Khaas Food- Dining in the Dark- Entrepreneur/mission to empower visually impaired/age/net worth/startup
The Pitch to Investors
Ali and Fizza presented their idea on Shark Tank Pakistan,
hoping to secure support for their vision. They shared how Khaas Foodz was
making strides in training blind individuals, and how the Dining in the Dark
experience was part of their broader mission to foster inclusivity. The sharks
were not just impressed with the business model, but were deeply moved by the
duo’s determination and commitment to improving the lives of visually impaired
individuals.
The Sharks' Generous Response
The pitch sparked a heartfelt response from the sharks, who
were eager to support Khaas Foodz. Rather than simply offering traditional
investment, the sharks extended a remarkable package of support. All five
sharks contributed a 1 million PKR grant, which would go directly toward
funding training programs for visually impaired individuals. This grant would
help Khaas Foodz expand its efforts to train more blind people, creating a
sustainable and inclusive business model.
Additional Support from the Sharks
Beyond the financial grant, the sharks also pledged to
provide significant business opportunities for Khaas Foodz. Kareem Teeli
offered a one-year contract to supply food for his company and factories, which
would give the business a steady stream of clients. Faisal, Usman, Romanna, and
Junaid also promised to organize five corporate-level dining events in
collaboration with their respective companies. This type of exposure would
greatly enhance Khaas Foodz’s visibility and help them gain a solid footing in
the corporate sector.
The Impact of the Pitch
The pitch was not just about securing funds; it was about
creating lasting social change. The support from the sharks was an endorsement
of the idea that businesses can be both profitable and socially responsible. By
blending innovation with inclusivity, Dining in the Dark exemplifies how
entrepreneurs can drive positive change in society. The investment and support
from the sharks were a crucial step in helping Ali and Fizza realize their
dream of empowering blind individuals through culinary education.
The Broader Significance of Dining in the Dark
Dining in the Dark is a concept that challenges the
conventional dining experience. By eating in total darkness, diners are able to
gain insight into the world of those who are blind. The sensory deprivation
heightens their awareness of the importance of the other senses, such as taste
and smell. This concept not only helps create empathy for the blind but also
transforms a simple meal into an educational experience that leaves a lasting
impact on guests.
The Human Spirit of Resilience
The journey of Ali and Fizza is a testament to the
resilience of the human spirit. Despite facing the challenges of blindness,
they have turned their disability into an opportunity to empower others.
Through their business, they have shown that barriers can be transformed into
stepping stones for success. Their journey serves as an inspiration to others,
proving that with determination, innovation, and a deep sense of purpose,
anything is possible.
A Bright Future Ahead
With the overwhelming support from the sharks, Khaas Foodz
is poised for greater success. Ali and Fizza's mission to train visually
impaired individuals and provide them with opportunities in the food industry
is just beginning. The combination of a unique business concept, a social
cause, and the backing of experienced investors ensures that Khaas Foodz will
continue to grow and make a meaningful difference in the lives of many. The
future looks bright for Ali, Fizza, and the many blind individuals they will
help along the way.
Timeline for Khaas Foodz:
Early Life: Ali and Fizza lose sight due to retinitis
pigmentosa, but remain determined.
Founding of Khaas Foodz: Ali and Fizza co-found Khaas Foodz,
with a mission to empower visually impaired individuals.
Dining in the Dark: Launch of the immersive Dining in the
Dark experience, promoting sensory dining and empathy for the blind.
Shark Tank Pakistan Pitch: Ali and Fizza present Khaas Foodz
to investors, highlighting their social impact and culinary training mission.
Sharks' Response: All five sharks offer 1 million PKR grant
and business opportunities, including corporate contracts and events.
Future Growth: With investor support, Khaas Foodz expands
its training programs and continues to empower visually impaired individuals.
