Business MeetUps with Nishtman Kano Al-Hussein

In “Quiet: The Power of Introverts In a World That Can't Stop Talking”, a book by Susan Cain, she wrote, “The next generation of quiet kids can and must be raised to know their own strength. ... in the long run, staying true to your temperament is key to finding work you love and work that matters. ” This holds true for Nishtman Kano Al-Hussein, a Syrian entrepreneur based in Luxembourg. Like many children around the world in the 1980s and 90s, Nishtman was obsessed with Nintendo Gameboy, Super Mario, Mortal Combat and Tetris. This love for computer games metamorphosed into a love for computer applications and the internet. Today, he runs Aryolux in Luxembourg, a communication and technology agency that provides website development and design, graphic design, digital marketing and IT consulting.

During a Touchpoints Business MeetUps with Mr, Al-Hussein on March 3rd, he had the opportunity to share his story with budding entrepreneurs and other professionals. His soft-spoken and gentle demeanor did not undermine his emphasis on the importance of learning and working hard. According to Nishtman, the ICT (information and communication technology) industry evolves every day, and “new technologies are spun out faster than one can keep up with”. To keep his company competitive requires continued learning and partnership, he stressed.

The event, which held in collaboration with the space-sharing organization, Silversquare, was interesting in many aspects. Representatives from Microlux, a microfinance institution, attended. With the participation of several established entrepreneurs, most of whom have immigration backgrounds, participants were encouraged to contemplate possibilities for realizing their ideas in Luxembourg.

Asked about some challenges faced, Nishtman noted the difficulty of finding clients. ICT ranks among the top five in-demand jobs in Luxembourg according to ADEM, the National Employment Agency. However, due to the peculiarity of the industry, small companies are forced to compete internationally. Clients have unlimited access to experts from around the world - such as in China, India, Nigeria or Russia, who charge a lot less. But Nishtman offers several advantages that they don't: cutting-edge branding of his agency, efficient use of SEO and social media marketing, and personalized quality services with gift packages.

Usually, the meetup is incomplete without a good meal. What Nishtman can do on his computer, Najm Al Hasan - a Syrian chef and budding entrepreneur - can do as well in the kitchen. Najm filled the event hall with the sweet aroma of his oriental cuisine, whose irresistible smell and delicious flavors were enjoyed by all. He plans to open a Syrian restaurant. Judging by the presentation and taste, as well as his constant hospitable and cheerful countenance, his chances of success are high.