Former Youth Client Serving Up a Slice of Success

When Anass arrived in the United States from Eritrea in September 2021, he was beginning a whole new chapter. Just 17 years old, he was learning to navigate a new country, strengthen his English and build a future for himself.

Today, at 22, he’s doing something pretty incredible: Anass is the proud owner of Ehsan Pizzaria & Kitchen in Jacksonville!

His journey from high school student to entrepreneur is a wonderful example of what can happen when determination, hard work and the right support come together.

Anass joined the Youth and Mentoring Program at LSS in October 2021. During his time in the program, he made tremendous strides in his English-language skills, academics and communication. Just as importantly, he grew in confidence and began taking steps toward greater independence.

He attended Terry Parker High School and graduated in 2023, an important milestone that set the stage for what came next.

After graduation, Anass landed his first job at Joseph's Pizza in Jacksonville. There, he gained hands-on work experience, learned valuable workplace skills and took on new responsibilities. He even purchased his first car — another exciting step toward independence!

And he wasn’t done dreaming. Anass went on to take classes at Florida State College at Jacksonville while continuing to work toward his future goals.

Fast-forward to today, and Anass has gone from working in a pizza restaurant to running one of his own. As the owner of Ehsan Pizzaria & Kitchen, he’s putting his experience, determination and entrepreneurial spirit to work. But one of the most exciting parts of his success is that he isn’t keeping what he’s learned to himself.

Anass now encourages and trains others who want to become entrepreneurs, sharing the importance of a positive mindset, hard work and persistence. He’s showing others that big goals are worth pursuing — and that success is possible when you’re willing to put in the effort.

Anass’s story is about so much more than owning a business. It’s about finding your footing in a new place, discovering your potential and having the confidence to imagine what’s possible.

With the support of LSS’s Youth and Mentoring Program, Anass built skills, gained experience and kept moving toward his goals. Today, he’s not only creating opportunities for himself but helping others see what they can accomplish, too.

We’re so proud of how far Anass has come and can’t wait to see what he does next. Here’s to new beginnings, big dreams and a future full of possibility!