Sameer Lalani is a dynamic entrepreneur and CEO of Check Express, Georgia’s largest financial services company, and Check Reliance, a fintech initiative focused on efficiency and accessibility.
Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Samir has built his career on the principles of inclusion, innovation, and community impact. Born in Mumbai, India, Sameer immigrated to the United States as a teenager, an experience that shaped his vision for creating opportunities for marginalized communities. Along with his business accomplishments, he is an advocate for mentorship, a proponent of inclusive employment practices, and a passionate supporter of initiatives that uplift families and empower individuals.
What inspired you to focus on inclusive recruitment, and how does this impact your work?
Inclusive hiring has always been personal to me. As an immigrant, I understand how difficult it is to start over in a new country, and I wanted to create opportunities for others facing similar challenges. At Check Express, we prioritize hiring single mothers and legal immigrants. This not only benefits individuals, but also strengthens our company. Diverse perspectives bring new ideas, and employees who feel valued are more committed to our mission. It’s a win-win that proves that business can drive social change.
How does your immigrant background affect your leadership style?
My journey from Mumbai to Atlanta taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of community. These values shape the way I lead. I strive to create an environment where my team feels supported and empowered, just as I was supported when I arrived in this country. I also believe in leading by example – and showing that with hard work and integrity, anything is possible. My background helps me connect with employees and clients on a personal level, especially those who have faced similar struggles.
What challenges do underserved communities face in accessing financial services, and how does Check Express address them?
Traditional banking systems often ignore underserved communities. High fees, inconvenient branch hours, and stringent requirements make it difficult for many people to access basic financial services. At Check Express, we offer practical alternatives such as check cashing and international money transfers. These services are designed to meet the needs of low-income people, immigrants, and others who feel excluded by traditional banks. Our goal is to give people the tools they need to manage their finances with dignity and ease.
What role does mentorship play in your life and work?
Mentorship is one of the most fulfilling parts of my journey. I’ve had great mentors to guide me, and I’m excited to move forward. At Check Express, mentorship is part of our culture – we pair new employees with experienced team members to help them succeed. Outside of the workplace, I mentor young entrepreneurs, sharing lessons learned from the challenges and successes I have encountered. Guidance is not just limited to advice; It’s about inspiring confidence and showing people what they can achieve.
How does Check Express integrate technology without losing its personal touch?
Technology is an essential tool for efficiency, but it is no substitute for human connection. At Check Express, we use financial technology through Check Reliance to streamline processes and enhance accessibility, but we always keep people at the heart of what we do. Whether it’s providing multilingual support or customized services to meet unique community needs, we focus on creating a personal and emotional experience for our customers. Innovation should serve people, not overwhelm them.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned as an entrepreneur?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that failure is not the opposite of success, but rather a stepping stone. Early in my career, I made mistakes, especially when it came to dealing with complex regulations. But those experiences taught me resilience, the importance of asking for help, and the value of a strong team. Every failure has shaped me into a better leader and helped me build a stronger, more adaptable business.
What motivates you to continue to grow and innovate?
What motivates me most is the impact we can make. Every time I hear about an employee thriving or a client achieving financial stability because of our services, it fuels my motivation to do more. I’m also inspired by the potential to expand Check Express and bring our mission to new communities. Knowing that our work is making a tangible difference keeps me focused and excited for the future.
How do you balance business growth with societal impact?
For me, they go hand in hand. A successful business must be a force for good. At Check Express, we prioritize both profitability and purpose through inclusive employment, serving underserved communities, and giving back through mentorship and philanthropy. Our expansion plans are not just about reaching more markets, they are about expanding our impact and creating opportunities for more individuals and families.
What are your plans for the future of Check Express?
Our immediate goal is to expand into Tennessee, South Carolina and North Carolina in 2025, with a long-term vision of becoming a national leader in financial services. But it’s not just about growth, it’s about ensuring our services remain available, reliable and impactful. As part of this vision, we are excited to launch a new app next year, which will integrate digital wallet functionality to make transactions more seamless and convenient for our customers. We explore innovative ways to leverage technology while staying true to our mission of serving people first. The future is exciting, and I am committed to making sure Check Express continues to be a force for positive change.
What do you hope your legacy will be?
I hope my legacy is one of empowerment and inclusion. Whether it’s creating jobs, mentoring young entrepreneurs, or providing financial services that uplift communities, I want to leave behind a company and philosophy that puts people first. Success, for me, is not measured by profit alone, but rather by the lives we touched and the opportunities we created. If I can inspire others to lead purposefully and give back, that is a legacy I will be proud of.
Final thoughts
Sameer Lalani’s journey from immigrant teenager to pioneering entrepreneur is a testament to the power of resilience, inclusion, and goal-oriented leadership. Through his work at Check Express and beyond, he continues to break barriers, empower communities and inspire others to make a difference. As Samir says: “When you invest in people, you don’t just build a business, you build a better future for everyone.”
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