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Mohamed Benzakour
Co-founder and CEO of StayHere Group
Hi, I’m Mohamed Benzakour, a former professional athlete who transitioned from the soccer field to the world of hospitality with the same passion, resilience, and drive.
My journey has been about pushing boundaries, embracing challenges, and creating experiences that leave a lasting impact. Today, I’m the co-founder and CEO of Stay Here Group, a brand inspired by our belief that life’s most meaningful moments happen when we’re fully present. I’m deeply passionate about inspiring others to slow down, embrace the beauty of the moment, and build genuine connections with the people and places around them. Outside of work, I’m a dedicated father, fitness enthusiast, and creative soul who loves exploring the intersections of art, fashion, and culture. For me, life is about finding purpose, creating impact, and making every moment count. Whether on the field, in business, or in life, I believe in showing up fully and inspiring others to do the same.
My job is about shaping a brand that resonate with people
Your job in a nutshell?
I’m the CEO and co-founder of Stay Here, where I lead a team dedicated to creating spaces that blend comfort, innovation, and authentic hospitality. My role is a mix of strategy, creativity, and leadership – I oversee the brand’s vision, guide our expansion into new markets, and ensure every Stay Here experience is exceptional.
On any given day, I might be fine-tuning operational plans, brainstorming with my team, or connecting with partners to bring our ideas to life. My job is about more than running a business – it’s about shaping a brand that resonates with people, inspires connection, and reflects a modern, meaningful approach to hospitality.
Those moments are incredibly fulfilling.
What‘s your favourite part of the job?
My favorite part of the job is seeing ideas come to life – watching a vision we’ve crafted as a team transform into a space that people love and connect with. Whether it’s a guest sharing their story of a memorable stay or seeing my team’s passion and creativity shine, those moments are incredibly fulfilling. I also love the dynamic nature of hospitality – every day is different. It’s a mix of creative challenges, meaningful interactions, and opportunities to learn and grow. Ultimately, the best part is knowing that what we do brings people joy, comfort, and a sense of belonging. There’s nothing more rewarding than that.
What really drew me to hospitality was the human element.
From a professional Soccer player to a creative hospitality entrepreneur – how did this happen?
The transition from professional soccer to hospitality wasn’t planned, but looking back, it feels like a natural evolution.
As an athlete, I learned discipline, resilience, and the importance of teamwork – all qualities that shaped my entrepreneurial mindset. When my soccer career ended, I wanted to channel that same drive into building something meaningful, something that connected people and made an impact. It started with short-term rentals, managing a few properties and experimenting with creating memorable guest experiences. Over time, that small venture grew into Stay Here – a hospitality brand that reflects my passion for creativity, connection, and innovation.
What really drew me to hospitality was the human element. Just like on the field, where every match is about collaboration and adapting to the unexpected, hospitality is about understanding people’s needs and delivering in ways that exceed expectations. It’s been an exciting journey, blending the determination I honed in sports with the creativity and vision needed to thrive in hospitality.
It’s about creating environments that inspire human potential and connection.
What is the story behind the brand? What is your mission and vision at “Stay Here”?
The story of Stay Here began with a passion for creating spaces that go beyond just providing accommodation.
From the start, I believed hospitality could be a powerful force for connection and positivity, shaping how people live, work, and interact with the world around them. That belief evolved into Stay Here—a brand dedicated to redefining hospitality as a catalyst for human flourishing. Our vision is rooted in the idea that a world built on kindness is the best kind of world. We passionately believe that kindness, when nurtured and shared, has the power to transform lives and create lasting connections. Our mission is to create spaces for living, working, and everything in between—where kindness propels our guests forward and inspires them to thrive.
Whether it’s through thoughtfully designed suites, welcoming workspaces, or experiences that foster growth and joy, Stay Here is about more than just a stay—it’s about creating environments that inspire human potential and connection
Morocco taught us the importance of blending tradition with modernity.
Stay Here Hotels began in Morocco and is now expanding globally – starting with Canada! What inspired this move, and what challenges do you anticipate?
Expanding to Canada is a huge milestone for Stay Here, and it’s inspired by our ambition to share the spirit of Moroccan hospitality with a global audience. Morocco taught us the importance of blending tradition with modernity, and now we’re taking that philosophy to a diverse and vibrant market like Canada.
Toronto, in particular, feels like the perfect starting point—it’s a city that thrives on culture, innovation, and connection, values that align perfectly with what Stay Here stands for. The biggest challenge will be adapting to a new regulatory and operational environment while ensuring that the essence of Stay Here remains intact. Every market has its unique characteristics, and our goal is to integrate into the Canadian culture while staying true to our core values. The new Canadian locations will definitely have their own identity. While our Moroccan properties reflect local charm and hospitality, the Canadian sites will blend our signature warmth with elements that celebrate Toronto’s diversity and energy. Guests can still expect the same attention to detail, thoughtful design, and human connection, but with a touch of the local culture that makes each Stay Here property unique.
Design, Kindness, Culture.
What can guests expect when checking into a Stay Here Hotel?
Design: Our spaces blend modern aesthetics with functional comfort, offering a perfect balance between style and practicality. From the soothing color palettes to carefully curated furnishings, every element is designed to make guests feel both relaxed and uplifted.
Kindness: At the heart of every Stay Here experience is kindness. Guests will feel it in the warm welcome they receive, the genuine smiles of our team, and the thoughtful little touches that make their stay memorable. We believe kindness is contagious, and we aim to create an atmosphere where it flows naturally.
Culture: Each Stay Here property is infused with the local spirit. Whether it’s through partnerships with local artisans, community-driven initiatives, or tips to explore hidden gems, we ensure that guests connect with the culture of their destination in an authentic and meaningful way.Stay Here isn’t just a place to stay – it’s a place to thrive, connect, and leave with memories that last long after checkout.
Bring your authentic self and be ready to grow.
If you could give one piece of career advice to someone considering a role with you, what would it be?
If I could give one piece of career advice, it would be this: Bring your authentic self and be ready to grow. At Stay Here, we value curiosity, adaptability, and a genuine passion for creating meaningful experiences. This isn’t just a job; it’s a place where you can challenge yourself, learn every day, and make a real impact. Embrace the journey with an open mind, stay proactive, and don’t be afraid to bring fresh ideas to the table. Kindness, collaboration, and a willingness to push boundaries will take you far – not just with us, but in any career path you choose.
We’re building a movement.
What inspires you most about your work with Stay Here Hotels? What keeps you motivated?
What inspires me most about my work with Stay Here Hotels is the power to shape meaningful moments in people’s lives.
Hospitality isn’t just about offering a place to stay – it’s about creating a sanctuary where people can reconnect with themselves, find inspiration, and build lasting memories. Knowing that we have the ability to uplift someone’s day, spark new ideas, or even create a sense of belonging is deeply fulfilling. What keeps me motivated is the belief that we’re building something bigger than just a brand – we’re building a movement. A movement rooted in kindness, human connection, and the idea that the spaces we create can propel people forward in their journeys. Whether it’s a guest finding the clarity to start a new chapter, a team member discovering their potential, or a community coming together because of what we’ve built – those moments keep my passion alive.
Every challenge, every milestone, and every story from those we’ve touched reminds me why I started this journey: to create a ripple effect of positivity and growth that goes far beyond the walls of our hotels. That vision – that dream – is what fuels me every single day.
My advice? Savor the details.
Your best tip for traveling in Marocco – must see places or hidden secrets you would share.
Morocco is a land of endless discovery, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern vibrancy.
Beyond the iconic destinations like Marrakech’s bustling souks, the blue streets of Chefchaouen, and the vast Sahara dunes, the country has hidden treasures waiting to be explored. In Tangier, a city steeped in history and charm, wander through the narrow streets of the medina, where every turn reveals something unexpected – hidden cafes serving mint tea with a view, artisanal shops showcasing local craftsmanship, and galleries that celebrate Morocco’s artistic soul. The Kasbah Museum is a must-visit for history buffs, offering a glimpse into the city’s layered past. For the adventurous, the Atlas Mountains offer breathtaking landscapes, from lush valleys to snow-capped peaks. The traditional Berber villages are a window into Morocco’s rich cultural heritage, where hospitality is a way of life. A hike through these mountains is both a physical and spiritual journey, reconnecting you with nature. In Fez, lose yourself in the maze-like medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with ancient wonders, from the Al Quaraouiyine University – the world’s oldest continually operating university – to the tanneries, where leather is dyed using traditional methods. Finally, for a truly serene experience, head to Chefchaouen, where the blue-painted streets create a dreamlike atmosphere. It’s a place to slow down, take in the stunning mountain views, and appreciate the artistry of everyday life.
My advice? Savor the details – whether it’s the aroma of spices in the markets, the intricate tilework of riads, or the warmth of Moroccan hospitality, these are the moments that make Morocco unforgettable. And don’t forget to indulge in a traditional tagine or a piping hot bowl of harira – it’s a taste of Morocco’s soul.
Remember that the most meaningful moments happen when you’re fully present.
Feel free to add anything you feel would be of value to your story and to our audience!
If there’s one thing I’ve learned through my journey, it’s the power of resilience and the beauty of embracing the moment. Life, much like hospitality, is about creating experiences that leave an impact – not just on others, but on yourself. When I transitioned from being a professional athlete to an entrepreneur, I faced countless challenges. Yet, every obstacle taught me the importance of staying focused, staying authentic, and never losing sight of your purpose. It’s a lesson I carry with me every day: no matter how tough the journey gets, keep showing up, and stay true to what drives you.
To anyone reading this: whether you’re building a career, traveling the world, or simply finding your way, remember that the most meaningful moments happen when you’re fully present. Invest in the little things – small acts of kindness, genuine connections, and taking the time to reflect on what really matters.
At Stay Here, we believe that life is best lived when we create spaces for growth, joy, and human connection. But beyond the brand, this is my personal mission too – to inspire others to embrace the present, to be kind, and to believe that every moment has the potential to be extraordinary. Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I hope it inspires you to take your next step with purpose, passion, and LOVE.
