2 minute read

Justin Williams & Chahinaz El-Masri

Meet one of Orlando’s most dynamic duos: Justin Williams and Chahinaz El-Masri. The power couple is known for following through on their passions, not only in their careers, but in community too.

Chahinaz by profession is founder and caterer of a successful Mediterranean catering business - Chez Tasty Catering. The business is inspired by Chahinaz’s background of Lebanon and the cuisine features a versatile Lebanese inspired menu.

Justin Williams is the General Manager at downtown Orlando’s premiere luxury hotel, The Grand Bohemian. Prior to joining The Grand Bohemian, Justin has been cultivating success in the hospitality business for over 23 years.

The husband-wife and parents of two met in Washington D.C. before making their way to Orlando. Since then, they have been doing some wonderful things together when it comes to giving back to the community, as they both share a passion for a strongly connected community.

Chahinaz shares compassion for children and serving the homeless. She dedicates time towards causes that support these areas among others. Justin serves on the board of directors for several organizations including Visit Orlando, Downtown Orlando Partnership, Central Florida hotel and Lodging Association, and the Central Florida African American Chamber of Commerce and Runway to Hope. Justin also supports Chahinaz’s vision towards a brighter future for the youth and serves on the board of directors for Man Up mentoring, an organization that focuses directly on at-risk youth. In addition, he is actively involved with Parramore Kidz Zone, Black Bee Honey, and Jones High School.

The couple attributes their success to one another, and together continue to grow in different areas of their lives. They also pay tribute to the peers, mentors and love from the community that continues to fuel the passion that lies within them. In the wake of events surrounding George Floyd, Justin created a podcast to inspire, educate and enlighten the world on matters of growth, and how to become the best version of yourself. Since then, the JW Podcast known as the Black & Boujee Experience, has been streamed by aspirers all around who wish to build a strong foundation of mental and physical health and take spiritual pride and strength in who they are, as that’s what the podcast represents.

Justin’s dedication towards what he stands for is evident through numerous recognitions. He has been recognized by the Orlando Business Journal, is a recipient of the Diversity in business award, ONYX Magazine's Men of Honor award, and the Orlando Magic Diversity Game Changer. The recognition sheds light on 19 years in the making. Justin’s journey consisted of various leadership positions from hotel manager to director and the gains in between. During his tenure, Justin opened and led the teams of the award-winning Verasa Napa, among other pursuits throughout his career in the hospitality industry.

Today, Chahinaz and Justin continue to do what they do best, keeping the Orlando community at the forefront. The two believe in remaining committed throughout life’s obstacles. As a cancer survivor, Justin remains humble and grateful throughout his journey and speaks to it as an awareness advocate.

To get to know Chahinaz and Justin better, follow the JW Podcast - the Black and Boujee Experience on most streaming platforms, including Apple and Spotify.