Paul Owhadi’s improbable entrepreneurial journey began as a first-generation immigrant coming to America with just a few hundred dollars in his pocket. Having learned a remarkable level of self-reliance, as a child sent to a French boarding school at age four, he was educated in London—and then headed to New York City and a whole new life.

After an education and a career in urban planning and city management—one of the youngest city managers in the country—he excelled at creating and transforming cities for the betterment of its people. But it was an unexpected opportunity in the private sector which set Paul on his entrepreneurship path. He took the extraordinary opportunity granted to him to explore the world of property development, discovering a passion for both real estate development and creating companies. He also faced devastating setbacks that would test his mettle and fortitude. Along the way, he formed his own business approach—one combining a passion for innovation and outside-the-box thinking. With the support of family and a fierce work ethic, he conquered his sector. But he also traveled the globe—using intellectual curiosity as his guide.

This is the story of a man who used every challenge to inspire and guide him; this is the inspirational tale of an entrepreneur who grabbed at every opportunity to create a life of passion and innovation.