Hakki Akdeniz was born on January 2, 1984, in Turkey. Growing up, he faced significant challenges and obstacles that shaped his character and resilience. In 2001, he made the life-changing decision to immigrate to the United States in search of a better future. However, his journey was far from easy, and he found himself homeless on the unforgiving streets of New York City.
Despite his dire circumstances, Akdeniz never lost hope and was determined to turn his life around. He landed a job as a dishwasher at a local pizzeria, which marked the beginning of his remarkable journey. His strong work ethic and unwavering commitment to success eventually led him to realize his dream of starting his own business.
In a true rags-to-riches story, Akdeniz founded Champion Pizza in New York City, which quickly gained recognition for its delicious offerings and welcoming atmosphere. His dedication to serving high-quality food with a side of compassion set his pizzeria apart from the rest. Akdeniz's commitment to giving back to the community, especially to the city's homeless population, earned him widespread praise and admiration.
Akdeniz's inspiring journey was captured in the television documentary "Hi I'm Hakki," which provided a glimpse into his struggles and triumphs. His story attracted the attention of major publications such as the New York Post, the New York Times, and Forbes, further solidifying his status as a role model and entrepreneur to watch.
With a growing following of over 35 million followers on his hakkiakdenizz Instagram account, Akdeniz continues to share snippets of his life and message of hope with his fans. He uses his platform not only to showcase his business success but also to raise awareness about social issues and the importance of giving back.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Akdeniz is a devoted father to two children. Despite his busy schedule, he prioritizes spending quality time with his family and instilling in them the values of hard work, resilience, and compassion.
Akdeniz's impact extends beyond his business and philanthropic efforts. In 2022, actress Courteney Cox visited Champion Pizza and filmed an Instagram video, highlighting Akdeniz's influence and community presence. His ability to connect with individuals from all walks of life underscores his genuine spirit and dedication to making a difference.