“The thought of leaving my father’s business to become a tour guide was as jarring as it was enticing. I had been privileged to graduate from Wharton as an undergrad and then as a submatriculant with my MBA. As the youngest in my graduate cohort, I often felt self-conscious and unworthy — and that feeling of not quite fitting in had lingered through the years. Influenced by the stereotypical stories of investment bankers, high-flying consultants, and C-level leaders, I had an image of what it meant to be a successful Wharton alumnus. “Food explorer” didn’t fit the mold. Would I be wasting my father’s investment in the world’s best education — and, worse, abandoning his business?”
– Wharton Magazine, 2023
Our founder’s story recently got featured in the Wharton Magazine. Arva Ahmed shared her journey of following her passion for food, switching from her post-Wharton corporate life into the wildly delicious path she’s still riding on today.
Scroll down to read the full story, or click here.
Check out where to find mouthwatering Palestinian-style falafel sandwich in Dubai here!
Arva Ahmed is the co-founder of Frying Pan Adventures, Dubai’s first food tour company, and a celebrated food explorer known for uncovering Dubai’s hidden culinary gems. Her expertise in the city’s diverse food scene has been featured in prominent publications such as CNN, Khaleej Times, BBC Travel, The Sun, The Independent and countless more. She also hosts Ditch the Silver on YouTube. Through her immersive tours and storytelling, Arva brings Dubai’s rich flavors and vibrant cultures to life.
