Kansas Sisters and College Students Celebrate One Year As the Youngest Franchisees in the Nation

November 06, 2026 // Franchising.com // LAWRENCE, KS – While most college students are fixated on campus events, football games, and studying for exams, University of Kansas sisters Atrooba and Tahima Hashim are juggling homework while hiring staff and analyzing inventory reports for their Mediterranean restaurant in Lawrence. As franchisees of Shawarma Press the sisters are believed to be the youngest franchisees in the nation. This weekend marks the one-year anniversary of their successful business venture.

Tom Parks, CEO of Premier Franchise Brokers, said he believes the Hashim sisters are the nation’s youngest franchisees. “When I first met them, I was immediately struck by their passion and sharp business acumen,” he said. “What they have achieved over the past year is a testament to their leadership, and they are truly an inspiration to the next generation of young entrepreneurs.”

According to a recent Federal Reserve survey of household economics, more than 25 million young adults are living with their parents due to financial hurdles, an ultra-competitive job market, and a housing affordability gap. This trend has prompted a growing number of young adults and college students to pursue entrepreneurship. While the sisters say being their own boss is rewarding, owning and running a restaurant has required numerous sacrifices, hard work, and commitment.

“My sister and I have always had a strong desire to succeed and build something of our own,” explained Tahima. “Neither of us came from a business background, but we did grow up in a family that believes in making something out of nothing. Our father grew up in a small village in Pakistan and taught us that opportunities don't always come to you, so you must work hard to create them. That mindset has stayed with us, and opening Shawarma Press was one way my sister and I chose to put it into practice.”

The biggest challenge has been adjusting to the lifestyle that comes with owning a business while still being college students. According to Tahima, the transition was sudden and completely changed how they viewed time, responsibilities, and their social lives.

“Before opening the restaurant, a fun event with friends could easily become a day-long affair. I'd spend a couple of hours getting ready, enjoy the event, and then spend more time looking through pictures afterward, like any other college student. Now, sometimes that entire experience must fit into an hour or two. Sometimes it was tough to accept that we had to give up free time or fun with friends, but it taught us how to be more intentional about how we spend our time.”

Among the accomplishments the sisters are celebrating during their one-year anniversary is a loyal customer base they built through savvy marketing campaigns, social media, and community engagement.

“We strive for consistency in both our food and customer service,” Atrooba said. “We’ve developed relationships with customers who trust us and continue to come back. We've also had opportunities to cater for KU groups and partner with student organizations, allowing us to build relationships beyond our restaurant's doors. Ultimately, we want Shawarma Press recognized as not only as a restaurant in downtown Lawrence, but as a business that actively supports local organizations, creates opportunities for collaboration, and contributes to the community that has welcomed us.”

Shawarma Press CEO Sawsan Abublan said she is extremely pleased with the enthusiasm, determination, and resilience the Hashim sisters have demonstrated as co-owners of the Lawrence location. “It’s been my privilege to witness their personal growth and achievements during the past year,” she remarked. “It’s been a pleasure working with them and watching them become capable, responsible restaurant owners.”

Located at 947 New Hampshire Street in downtown Lawrence, the restaurant is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The menu features delicious Shawarma made from tender chicken and premium beef. Customer favorites include the “world famous” freshly made hummus as well as wraps to please all taste buds, including the spicy Tandoori Press™ Shawarma and the Tex-Mex Press™ Shawarma. The menu also boasts made-from-scratch falafels, fresh soup, salad, protein bowls, and baked pastries. Catering Services are available for all occasions.

Since opening the nation’s first authentic Shawarma franchise with headquarters in Irving, Texas in 2017, Shawarma Press franchises have expanded throughout Texas in Arlington, Denton, Georgetown, Plano, and San Antonio. The brand’s flagship restaurant thrives in the downtown Dallas Arts District while two Georgia locations are operating in metropolitan Atlanta. The Lawrence restaurant marks the brand’s first expansion in Kansas.

SOURCE Shawarma Press

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