Today we’d like to introduce you to Maria Bhairosingh
Hi Maria, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My journey has been a mix of purpose, community, and creativity. I started in the hospitality industry approximately 10 years ago where I have transitioned from event coordination to management & leadership roles. I have always had a passion for building connections and creating meaningful experiences. That passion led me to launch ZÜ Bar, a concept that grew out of a desire to build a welcoming space where people could unwind, connect, and celebrate culture.
ZÜ Bar has evolved from being just a place to gather to a brand with an app that provides updates on events, music, and community service collaborations, along with unique loyalty perks. Alongside this, we’re continually innovating to create products and experiences that align with our community’s values.
Recently, I’ve felt called to steer ZÜ in a direction that reflects my faith, making sure that we honor our values in every event and service.
With each step, I’ve learned that resilience, listening to the community, and being true to my vision are what make this journey worthwhile. My goal is to continue to expand ZÜ Bar and make an impact while balancing family, personal growth, and faith. ZÜ Bar coming to South Florida 2025!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s been far from smooth! Like any entrepreneur, I’ve faced my share of challenges. In the beginning, finding the right funding and managing expenses while trying to bring my vision to life was a real hurdle. There were moments when it felt like every step forward came with a new setback, whether it was related to finding the right team to help navigate the vision, balancing work and personal life or even staying focused and not letting anything sidetrack me from my goals.
One of my biggest struggles has been balancing ambition with practicality. For example, expanding ZÜ Bar’s offerings—like launching our app, organizing events, and creating new products—required a lot of resources and constant adaptation. Each new idea or service added layers of complexity to the business, and learning how to manage it all without burning out has been a continuous journey. Since our rebrand early this year, we have had to evolve our brand in more ways than one and that alone requires consistency and focus.
Another challenge was finding a way to stay true to my values. Recently, I made a big decision to shift ZÜ’s focus to ensure that our events and services reflect our commitment to positive values and community impact. This meant pivoting away from certain events and even rethinking some business strategies, but it’s been worth it.
Ultimately, I think the hardest part has been staying grounded in my purpose despite the ups and downs. But every challenge has taught me resilience, and I believe those experiences have shaped me as a person and as a leader. The road hasn’t been easy, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I am excited for the world to see and experience ZÜ as we are on our mission to truly redefine hospitality, the ZÜ way.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about ZÜ Bar & Lounge ?
ZÜ Bar is more than just a place to hang out—it’s a lifestyle brand that’s all about community, culture, and connection. We’re known for creating unique experiences that bring people together, whether through live events, curated music playlists, or a loyalty program that gives back to our customers.
What sets us apart is our commitment to creating a space that not only entertains but also uplifts. Our events and offerings reflect our values, focusing on positive vibes and meaningful connections. We want to provide experiences that feel authentic and cater to a diverse audience, especially those who appreciate a fusion of cultural and social experiences. Our distinctive concept also sets us apart: a 2-in-1 experience that combines a Breakfast Bar by Day and Bar/Lounge by night, which offers something for everyone on any day of the week.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of our evolution to a more values-centered approach. We’re not just focusing on growth; we’re focused on making sure each event, product, and service has a purpose behind it. We want readers to know that ZÜ Bar is a place where everyone is welcome, and our mission is to create a sense of belonging through everything we offer.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Finding a mentor and networking effectively has been essential to my growth, both personally and professionally. Here are a few things that have worked well for me:
1) Start with genuine connections: Building real relationships has been key. I focus on getting to know people as individuals, not just for what they can offer. This approach has opened doors to authentic mentorships and partnerships because it’s built on trust and mutual respect.
2) Put yourself out there: Attend local events, business summits, or workshops where you can meet others in your field. I absolutely love attending events as such because I love to say that I am a student of the game and learning never ends. You won’t believe the connections you can establish by just being in the room.
3) Be clear about what you need: When looking for a mentor, be specific about what kind of guidance or expertise you’re seeking. It’s easier for others to help you if they know exactly how they can support your journey. I would suggest seeking other entrepreneurs in your field, connecting with them via email, social media or in person and finding ways to learn from them while building your own brand/idea from what you learn.
4)Offer value: I’ve found that networking isn’t just about what others can do for me. Sometimes, I’ll offer my skills, knowledge, or connections to someone, which can lead to meaningful relationships.
5)Leverage online communities: Platforms like LinkedIn and even industry-specific groups on social media have been helpful. Engaging in these spaces and sharing your own insights can help you connect with others who resonate with your journey. I love attending business professional events that fill my cup with the knowledge and resources I need to constantly evolve. @BPN.MIAMI has great resources and is an amazing organization right here in South Florida where you can start as a black professional in the game.
Remember, mentorship and networking are about mutual growth. Seek people who inspire you but also challenge you, and don’t be afraid to reach out, ask questions, and invest time in building those relationships. The right connections can be transformative.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.zubarfl.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zubarfl/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zubarfl
- Twitter: @ZUBARFL on X
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/thezucode/
