Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Houari.
Hi Jessica, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born and raised in Memphis. After high school, I attended the University of Memphis before transferring to Christian Brothers University, where I completed both my B.A. and MBA in Business Administration. I began my career in the corporate world, but I quickly realized I wasn’t fulfilled by the work I was doing.
Everything shifted after a trip to Kenya. When I returned, I was sharing my experience with a colleague who simply asked, “What are you doing here?” That question stayed with me. It pushed me to reflect on what truly motivated me, and I realized that serving others was where my passion lived.
Soon after, I left my corporate job and moved to South Korea to immerse myself in a new culture. While there, I was accepted into the Peace Corps and was placed in Morocco, where I served for five years. After completing my service, I remained in Morocco and transitioned to working with a nonprofit called Project Soar. At Project Soar, we focused on empowering teenage girls to stay in school ,which protected them from child marriage. I also had the opportunity to expand programming across Morocco and into Uganda, which was deeply meaningful work.
Serving vulnerable populations has always brought me the greatest sense of purpose. After nin years in Morocco, I returned to Memphis and was introduced to Hospitality Hub, an organization that helps individuals exit homelessness. I’ve now been working with the unhoused community for five years, and I’m deeply grateful to be part of this work and to serve this community.
I’m also a parent to three young children, and one of my greatest joys is being able to lead by example, teaching them the importance of kindness, compassion, and service to others.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Choosing to leave a stable corporate career and move overseas on my own was not easy. I had to spend a lot of time in prayer and ultimately take a leap of faith, trusting God’s plan for my life.
When I moved to Morocco, one of my biggest challenges was learning Darija, Moroccan Arabic. It’s primarily a spoken language, and as a visual learner, that made it especially difficult. I was fortunate, though, to be surrounded by incredible community members who showed me patience and grace as I learned. Their support made all the difference, and I’m proud that I can still use the language today to stay connected to friends who have truly become family.
Beyond language, there were also cultural adjustments. As a very independent woman, it was an adjustment to live and work in more rural, traditionally patriarchal communities where women often remained at home. My work required me to collaborate with village leaders and elders on major initiatives, and as a woman, I had to put in extra effort to build trust and earn respect in those spaces.
Over time, that respect was earned. I was able to build strong relationships and work alongside my male counterparts as an equal. While those challenges stretched me in many ways, they also shaped me and strengthened my ability to lead and connect across cultures.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I currently work with Hospitality Hub, where we walk alongside individuals experiencing homelessness as they move toward stable housing and a new chapter of life. At the heart of my work is building relationships, getting to know people, hearing their stories, and supporting them in navigating systems that can often feel overwhelming. It’s about more than just resources; it’s about restoring dignity, hope, and a sense of belonging.
A big part of my role is also supporting our staff, making sure they have the tools, resources, and encouragement they need to best serve our guests. I have the privilege of working alongside an incredible group of empathetic and compassionate individuals who show up every day committed to this work. It’s truly a team effort, and I’m constantly inspired by the care and dedication they bring.
Throughout my journey, I’ve always been drawn to working with people who are often overlooked or underserved. From empowering teen girls in Morocco to stay in school, to now supporting individuals here in Memphis as they exit homelessness, my work has consistently centered on helping people see their own worth and potential.
I think what I’m most known for is my ability to connect, truly connect, with people from all walks of life. Whether it was learning Darija to communicate with communities in Morocco or simply sitting down and listening to someone’s story here at home, I’ve learned that trust is everything. When people feel seen and heard, that’s when real change can begin.
What I’m most proud of isn’t just one moment, it’s the people. It’s the individuals who have found stable housing, the girls who chose to stay in school, and the relationships that continue long after my direct role ends. Those connections stay with me, and they’re what keep me grounded in this work.
What sets me apart is the perspective I bring. Living and working across different cultures has shaped me in a deep way. It has taught me humility, patience, and the importance of meeting people exactly where they are. I lead with compassion, faith, and a genuine desire to serve, and I believe that everyone deserves the chance to build a life they’re proud of.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the power of simply showing up with consistency, humility, and compassion. You don’t always have the perfect answer or solution, but being present and willing to walk alongside someone can make a meaningful difference.
I’ve also learned that real impact starts with listening. Every person has a story, and when we take the time to truly hear and understand it, we’re better able to support them in a way that honors their dignity and individuality.
Another lesson that’s stayed with me is that growth often comes through discomfort. Some of the most challenging moments – living in a new culture, navigating language barriers, or stepping into unfamiliar spaces – have shaped me the most. They’ve taught me resilience, patience, and a deeper sense of empathy.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hospitalityhub.org
