THE 14TH ANNUAL SHORTY AWARDS

The Shorty Awards honor the best of social media and digital. View this season's finalists!
From the 5th Annual Shorty Social Good Awards

Refugee Mali Digius' hidden diamonds turn into the American Dream

Finalist in Immigration & Refugees

Objectives

American+Will exists to highlight American entrepreneurism and the diversity in America's small business community. Mali Digius is a shining example of the American Dream. She was forced to leave her home in Iran, and left all her possessions behind except a few diamonds she smuggled in a tube of tooth paste. Fast forward to today, and she is a successful small business owner in California.

Strategy and Execution

Starting a business can be a daunting endeavor. When people see stories of everyday people who have overcome tremendous odds and followed their dreams, it just may encourage them to pursue their own.

Results

We've received story submissions from all over the country, and we've documented the stories of 14 entrepreneurs from Chicago to San Diego, Milwaukee to Atlanta and beyond. These stories include a single mom, a refugee, an ex-convict, a healthcare worker, a veteran, a female-led trucking company, and more. These stories represent the diversity of America and the immense pride and success that can come when you open a business in your community.

Media

Video for Refugee Mali Digius' hidden diamonds turn into the American Dream

Entrant Company / Organization Name

Iron Light, Think Freely Media

Link

Entry Credits