Waukesha Café House; business started by immigrants from Afghanistan
WAUKESHA, Wis. - A Waukesha man spent nearly six years turning a vacant building downtown into a new café – and that was the easy part.
Mojib Rasuli and his wife, Narmin, have always dreamed about owning their own business. They bought a vacant duplex in 2018 and renovated it right up until Waukesha Café House opened its doors two weeks ago.
"It was basically a one-man show. I had to build it by myself," Mojib said.
Mojib Rasuli
Waukesha Café House enters a crowded market in the downtown area. Two other coffee shops are within walking distance. The Rasulis say their passion for this country sets them apart.
"This is the American Flag. One of the customers bring it for me. American Dream," Narmin said.
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"I was born in Afghanistan and when the Taliban came to power for the first time in 1996 – my father was a police officer and my mother was a teacher. They had no choice but to leave," Mojib said.
Mojib Rasuli
Starting over was not easy. But once they settled in Waukesha, they found a community that cared.
"It’s our new home – they are supporting us. This means a lot to us," Mojib said.
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Their hard work paid off. Business is brewing – a dream of peace and independence fully realized.
Mojib said he became a U.S. citizen in 2009. Waukesha Café House is open every day from 6 a.m until 3 p.m. The couple is planning a formal grand opening in November so their family can join them in celebration.