Benjamin Hakimian moved to the United States from Iran 40 years ago at the age of 17 to study mechanical engineering at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Since then, he has created two companies, married and started a family that has grown to four daughters and two sons from age 17 to 28. Today, Hakimian Holdings owns more than 20 shopping centers, and one office building, in Jacksonville, Jacksonville Beach, Orange Park, St. Augustine, Fernandina Beach and Yulee. He has grown his company exponentially, believes in quality over quantity, and focuses on maintaining strong relationships with his tenants and customers.