Thuraya Taleb is not your typical entrepreneur. Known as the “crazy loud Lebanese woman,” she made a bold move that would change her life forever. Born and raised in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and later living in Amman, Jordan, Thuraya was driven by an inner voice that kept telling her, “Go to China, something big is waiting for you there.” One day, she decided to listen packing her bags, booking a one-way ticket from Jordan to China, and stepping into an unknown world that would shape her remarkable journey.
From Amman to China: A Leap of Faith
Arriving in China, where Arabic was unfamiliar and Lebanese culture was virtually unknown, Thuraya began introducing locals and expats to the exuberance of “Yalla Habibi,” the rhythmic beats of Dabke, and the sensual movements of belly dancing. More importantly, she curated vibrant culinary and cultural experiences that brought together Chinese nationals and expatriates, creating a warm, inclusive community that celebrated diversity and unity. Connecting people and building genuine relationships became her greatest strength one that defined much of her future work.
Creating a Cultural Phenomenon: Yalla Habibi
What began as a phrase soon evolved into a movement. “Yalla Habibi” became more than just words; it embodied joy, connection, and cultural pride. Through her curated gatherings, Thuraya gave people a space to share meals, stories, and traditions, fostering a sense of belonging that transcended borders.
Mastering the Art of F&B Concept Creation
Thuraya’s passion for food and culture naturally led her into the world of Food & Beverage (F&B) consultancy. In 2017, she founded Lionne Inc. in Amman, Jordan, later expanding it to China in 2018. Her innovative approach and deep understanding of cultural nuances allowed her to design unique dining experiences that resonated with diverse audiences. In 2021, she launched Restaurateurs Inc. in Dubai, continuing her mission to bridge cultures through food and hospitality.
Empowering the Next Generation: Entrepreneur Training
Since 2017, Thuraya has been training and coaching young entrepreneurs across China, Lebanon, the UAE, and beyond. Her mentorship focuses on creativity, resilience, and cultural awareness equipping the next generation with tools to thrive in a globalized, multicultural world.
A Glimpse into Her Life: TV Show Presenter
In 2018, Thuraya took her storytelling to the screen by filming a TV show for AlAan TV, based in Dubai. Each episode explored different aspects of her life in China from cultural adventures to personal challenges giving viewers an authentic window into her journey.
Building a Global Community
For Thuraya, business has always been about people. Whether through cultural events, mentorship, or online platforms, she has created spaces where individuals from all walks of life can connect, share, and grow together. Her work continues to inspire others to embrace diversity, follow their passions, and contribute meaningfully to the world.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Thuraya Taleb
From a daring leap of faith to becoming a respected cultural connector and entrepreneur, Thuraya Taleb’s story proves the power of passion, perseverance, and human connection. With her unstoppable energy and dedication to bringing people together, she is not just building businesses — she is building bridges across cultures.
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