Ali Jihami reflects on life, growing up in Lebanon

Ghana-based Lebanese, Ali Jihami, a sales and marketing manager at Ghandour Cosmetics Ltd is becoming a legend in the African marketing cycle. This is given his exploits with Ghana’s leading cosmetic company where he holds sway for decades as and has for the past 20 years contributed immeasurably to the rise of the company across Africa.

He recently shared some of his memories of Lebanon, his native country, saying: “Lebanon is home and one of the most beautiful countries in the world. The country’s landscape is amazing with its mountains close to the sea. I have memories of beautiful snow-capped mountains and sitting by the fireplace eating sweet potatoes and drinking wine with family and friends.”

Ali Jihami’s reminiscence also included part of his childhood and his preoccupation as a growing child. “There were a plethora of activities to engage in and I would often go swimming to experience the lovely beaches, go fishing, hiking, play football with friends, explore the country’s museums and cultural sites, and take a cable car from the city to the mountain. The city had vibrant nightlife which I enjoyed,” he recalled.

Although, he is more or less an African now, and even more Ghanaian than Lebanese, Ali Jihami, however still retains his Lebanese heritage, especially with his love for the cuisine of the Middle East country.

Said he: “Lebanese food has great variety and taste and eating when people commune is ingrained in our culture. We are big snackers and have over 30 different varieties of mezes (appetizers) before you even get to the main meal.”

He also reflected on Lebanon’s unfortunate checkered past of political unrest, which he avowed, “has affected Lebanese people living both home and away, in one way or another.”

According to Ali JIhami, Lebanese have been forced to adapt to living as expatriates abroad and visiting their homelands from time to time. “Working and living away from Lebanon, trips back home are always a treat and are savoured,” he mused.