From Fine-Meadowbrook Housing Community to ByWard Market

In 1994, when Fine-Meadowbrook first opened its doors, the Soueidan family became one of its first residents. Mohammed was just four years old when his parents moved in. Today, he’s a thriving entrepreneur, running the Ottawa Corn Roaster at the ByWard Market — a beloved local spot known for its sweet corn cups and refreshing lemonade. 

This summer, Mohammed returned to Fine-Meadowbrook for the annual community BBQ, bringing his roasting machine and serving corn to residents free of charge. It was a full-circle moment: a former tenant giving back to the community that helped raise him. 

We spoke with Mohammed to learn more about his journey, his business, and the values that continue to connect him to Fine-Meadowbrook. 

Q: What do you remember most about growing up at Fine-Meadowbrook? 
I remember when we first moved in, it was so beautiful and growing up there was amazing. I’ve had lifelong friends from that neighbourhood and we’ve all grown up together, working finding our own paths. We would play at the parks together and remember staying out until dark, the play structure was getting used quite a bit in my day. 

Q: How did living in the community shape who you are today? 
It taught me to be humble and never forget where you came from. Even after many failures and many successes, I still find myself visiting the old neighbourhood. It shaped me to be resilient and to never give up no matter how hard it is. With every down there’s always an up. 

Q: How did the idea for the Ottawa Corn Roaster come about? 
Ottawa Corn Roaster was just an idea at the beginning; there wasn’t anyone really doing anything like this on a full-time basis it was always for special events, and I taught why not corn is native to Canada, and why not use a product we already have and make it even better. I started Ottawa Corn Roaster in 2016 and haven’t looked back since. We established ourselves in the Byward Market and have been a staple here for many years. I did think at the time it wouldn’t workout, but I kept pushing through and here I am now. When Covid hit in 2020 I thought we were done but the city proved me wrong! There wasn’t any travelling, but our local Ottawans gave us probably the most successful summer that year. 
 
Q: What was it like starting your own business? 
It was difficult. I didn’t know much about corn, but I knew that almost every country in the world does their corn a little bit differently and I started looking into a “corn roaster”. I’ve had a lot of experience in the food industry, so I decided to make corn on the cob. We can put in a bowl for you, different ideas and spices that gave me a lightbulb effect. I just rolled with it and let my customers tell me what they want. If you’re ever going to open a business, let your customers dictate what you do with that business. Working for yourself is honestly a dream come true. You aren’t working if you enjoy what you’re doing and are passionate about it. 

Q: At the MHI Tenant BBQ, you roasted and served corn for free. Why was that important to you? 
It was important for me to give back to the community, especially the community I grew up in. My parents still live in there and it just felt right to give back. Sometimes it isn’t about the money but about a smile you put on someone’s face. Seeing everyone enjoy our corn at the community that I grew up in, where my parents still live - honestly that was the best payday ever. 

Q: What does “community” mean to you personally? 
Community means home, it’s that simple. It’s always been home and always will be home. I grew up there, I’ve made friends, I’ve had both bad and good times out of that community. It’s family, its motivation, it’s the backbone.  

Q: What advice would you give to kids growing up in Fine-Meadowbrook or other MHI housing communities today? 
Never forget where you came from, doesn’t matter where you’re from. Keep looking forward and better yourself. Stay in school, learn and grow up and become a better person for you and your loved ones. Don’t ever give up and always bet on yourself. Become what you want to be, education is key, but education isn’t only in school. You can learn a lot out there in the real world. If you have a dream, set smaller goals and steps to achieve them. 

Mohammed’s story is a reminder of what community can nurture and inspire: resilience, creativity, and a spirit of generosity. From his earliest days at Fine-Meadowbrook to running one of ByWard Market’s tastiest businesses, he continues to live out the values of connection and giving back.