In this episode of "Civic Platform", U-Multicultural journalist Zuher Almuse, covers the opening of a Mr. Calzone franchise in Winnipeg, which sells Middle-Eastern and Italian fast food that is halal.

Mohamad Jumaily, Founder and CEO or Mr. Calzone, started his business in 2011, one of the first restaurants in Winnipeg to sell halal food. He started to franchise his business in 2018, and the business opening covered in this video is the 4th Mr. Calzone franchise to be opened.

Many local people had the opportunity to try out the food, from pizzas to kebabs and more. Among them, were various dignitaries including the Honourable John Reyes, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Immigration in the Manitoba government; the President of the Arab Association of Canada and a City Councillor.

All spoke about the growth of the Muslim population of Winnipeg and the growing need for restaurants and businesses that cater to their needs and the community in general. The economic benefit and job opportunities made available is also an objective reality of these new businesses. Members of the community were happy to see a new restaurant in the neighbourhood that has a different flavour than others.

Mr.Jumaily, Mr. Calzone's founder talked about the history of his business and the benefits of investing in a franchise, including training of would-be franchise owners and their staff, among other features.

The owner of the new franchise, Farouq Musher, talked of the challenges in starting a business in the middle of the pandemic - his family only arrived in Canada during the pandemic - and his hopes for the future.

Stay tuned for more Civic discussions on Civic Platform: https://u-channel.ca/civic-journalism/ 

Contact Zuher Almusre, our civic journalist, to share your story and explore civic issues at zuheralmusre@u-channel.ca.   

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