Man with Down syndrome dreamed to have his 'name on something'— then he became a CEO

One of the most important requirements to turn a dream into a reality is to dare to put in effort. There may be many obstacles and challenges and many naysayers will hinder the growth, but having faith in oneself can lead to inspiring results. Nektarios Tsinonis is one such youngster who believed in himself, per Live Action. He had Down syndrome, but he did not let it become an obstacle in chasing his dream. He worked hard and pushed through until he opened his very own cafe, “Beans & Dreams Nektarios Place,” which is now a haven for many with special conditions. 

Tsinonis’ mother, Joana, was worried when she got her son’s diagnosis, per WUSA9. “I thought my world would be very different in a bad way. But it was very different in the best of ways,” she remarked. The CEO began working at his family’s restaurant, where he learned a lot. However, it was always his dream to have something of his own. “He always said he wanted something with his name on it,” his mother recalled. That’s when he opened “Beans & Dreams Nektarios Place”, a cafe of his own—with his principles, values and hopes. In a recent post on Instagram, the cafe marked its owner's 25th birthday, celebrating everything he is. 

Describing him as a “constant source of love,” the vivid glimpses of Tsinonis reveal that he has a lot more to offer. The caption of the post continued, “Your smile has touched more lives than you’ll ever know. We’re so lucky to have you in our lives!” This heartwarming description comes from what the young man did apart from chasing his dream—he fulfilled the dreams of several others. The cafe is proudly represented by employees with disabilities, each using their strengths to interact and create not just a cup of coffee but a community. The shop’s slogan reads, “A café and coffee shop dedicated to attaining life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness for young adults with disabilities,” and Tsinonis stands by every word.

Another post captured the many employees gleaming with smiles as they celebrated each other together. “Everyone has a place here, or at least we hope so,” Joana said. Nicolas Chomiak, one of the employees with Down syndrome, was delighted to share his experience, per Frederick Magazine. He said, “I am so blessed to see Nektarios every day. And I’m just so happy seeing what he does." Speaking of his job at the cafe, he noted, “I love taking people’s orders and I like talking with people, so I love my job.” Tsinonis’ mom enjoys helping and being around the employees, who are always full of love and enthusiasm.

The mom commended the spirits of the talented bunch and noted that, along with getting jobs, they’re also learning so much. “They’re part of our community. What we do is teach them to be part of society and to be appropriate, learn how to ask questions and engage people,” she said. In another post, the cafe marked World Down Syndrome Day and especially thanked its employees. “Thank you to our amazing staff- our world is special because of you!” the caption read. Joana added, “You’re a better person when you’re around these kids.” What began as a dream is fueled to continue as an inspiring mission, thanks to Tsinonis and his special strength. 

You can follow the Beans & Dreams Nektarios Place (@beansanddreams_nektarios) on Instagram for more wholesome content.