“Taking a new step, uttering a new word, is what people fear most.”
― Fyodor Dostoevsky,
Being steadfast and resilient in times of adversity is a difficult task, but when individuals are determined, they can achieve anything they set their mind to. One such individual is Alan J. Omar, born in Selemani, Kurdish Region, Iraq, yet grew up in the United States. Born on February 02, 1983, Omar is an entrepreneur, investor, real estate developer, and businessman. Since the start, Omar had little know-how of how the corporate world functioned and the tactics to achieve massive success. Yet Alan was determined with all his might and executed his skills and gained experience. When Omar was 15, he secured his first job as a construction worker in the Netherlands, where he worked with persistence, hard work, and determination and realized that experience is the key to success. In 2015, Omar went back to school at the age of 32, and got his Bachelor’s in Business Administration with Majors in Finance and Accounting.
Defining the spirit of resilience
“Life doesn’t get easier or more forgiving, we get stronger and more resilient.”
― Steve Maraboli
From the age of 10 to 19, Omar was an athlete in Soccer and Table Tennis in Kurdistan, Netherlands and USA. Omar moved to the United States in 2000 and commenced with different types of jobs in merchandising stores such as supermarkets or clothing brands. In his heart, Omar knew that he was only working in this field to gain experience and to cover his bills. As time went by, Omar progressed forward and looked for work that enhanced his interest and passion. Soon enough, in 2004, Omar got himself in residential real estate as a small investor/owner, while also working as a business consultant where he offered direction to all the overseas corporations that desired to enter the Kurdish region. As Omar had extensive knowledge about the marketplace, he guided firms about commodity trades, crude oil, liquid natural gas, and other petroleum-based products. As a consultant, Alan learned about the oil business and industry, which instigated his thirst for entrepreneurship. Alan noticed that the companies were constricted financially, and there was a lack of investors, which captivated him to grab the chance that led towards success.
In 2005, Omar laid the groundwork for “The Capital Gate,” a private equity firm that laid its footing in the United States and gave a platform to stakeholders internationally. Omar constructed the establishment tactically and fixated on lowest-risk and properly diversified venture funds that offer long-term and steady value. Currently, Omar is the founder and CEO of The Capital Gate, based in Virginia, USA. Omar has been known for his skill in real estate expansions, gas stations, and the investment trade. Omar serves as a board member and strategic advisor to Global Diplomatic Center (GDC). Additionally, Omar is the founder of Seva Market & Deli, a licensed brand in the petroleum trade that runs three distinct commercial subdivisions comprising a convenience store, fuel station, and fast-food deli. In 2014, Omar sold the first license of Seva Market & Deli.
Experience of a lifetime
“The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing.”
― Henry Ford
Omar has a wide range of skills in handling mini markets, fuel stations, and mechanic shops. Omar’s goal was to construct a well-established concept and structure that could offer the foundation and product supervision to entrepreneurs looking to enter the gas station industry in the preceding years. Simultaneously, Omar aimed to assist other new business owners avoid common mistakes, due to the lack of experience, capital, and support. In 2014, Omar sold his first licensed Seva Market & Deli retail station in Manassas Park, Virginia. Omar’s success can be assessed by the successful spots he has attained in leading corporations globally. Omar’s role as a board member to Global Diplomatic Center (GDC) is of critical significance as he counsels the administration team in management structure, organizational development and strategic financial guidance. Omar also serves as a board member on IraqAid, a nonprofit organization that encourages economic development and believes in giving opportunities to those in need.
Omar’s journey has been full of resilience and consistency, which has been gratifying and rewarding as his journey is a beacon of hope for each and every ambitious business apprentice. Omar has been exemplary as he has made individuals trust themselves and learn from adversities, irrespective of upbringing or circumstances. Omar returned in 2017 and worked tirelessly scaling The Capital Gate a venture and asset management firm for recognized and highly acclaimed investors. The firm operates in three segments: Real Estate, Private Equity, and Consulting that Omar relaunched with his determination. There is investing, developing, and managing profitable and multiple-use real estate assets in the Real Estate segment. In Private Equity, the company finances companies with a promising future and incredible organizational teams through investment and acquisitions. In the Consulting section, The Capital Gate aims to advise clients and stakeholders on tactical purchases, management expansion, and investment structure and support global investors access several markets.
Strive to stay humble
“There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self.”
― Ernest Hemingway
When a person achieves success, they tend to get full of themselves and react in a difficult manner when contacted. Yet, Alan is an individual who has always acted as a mentor and guide for people who wish to make a name for themselves. There are times when individuals begin to doubt their abilities, yet Omar has been consistent and encouraging. From a construction worker to a business tycoon, Alan Omar is an inspiration to budding students who want to make it big. Success does not come easy, and it requires an immense amount of hard work and consistency. There might be moments when it seems that there is no way out and that the pace is not picking up. It is important to understand that everyone has their own speed. As an individual who has remained steadfast, Omar is a great example who explored his options before landing on his passion. Alan took his time deciding on his career path, which was a great learning moment. Everything takes time, yet all it takes is persistence and determination.