CYSK: Munir Mohammad & Zee Avci

Munir Mohammad and Dr. Zeynep (Zee) Avci, owners of Shortwave Coffee, Boone Olive Oil Co., and Fit X Femme, dish about life in Columbia and what makes their relationship work.

How did you meet?
Munir: We met through friends. I knew right away that she was the one. End of story!
Zee: Friends made the introduction first, and the more we got to know each other, the more we knew we wanted to be together.

What do you like to do in your free time?
M: I appreciate our free time! Relax and see friends, explore new things, and travel.
Z: We love trying out new and different experiences, places, and foods; although, just chatting at Shortwave over coffee (him) and tea (me) is some us-time that we always enjoy.

What is your favorite art/culture activity in Columbia?
M: Downtown is a vibrant part of Columbia, and we enjoy exploring the different cuisines that are steps away from each other. True/False Film Fest is always circled on the calendar and so is the July 4 fireworks and the BBQs with friends that inevitably precede it.
Z: My favorite would have to be walking the MKT trail and soaking up nature at all the wonderful parks, followed closely by the super supportive community of small business owners in Columbia. There are so many opportunities to meet with people from all walks of life who care so much for what they bring to the table.

What’s your favorite place you’ve traveled together?
M & Z: We’ve been to a lot of places that are amazing to see, but one of our favorites has to be San Francisco. There was something about that time of our lives and the way sun beamed on the trees, the breeze of the ocean, talking to the artists gathered in the Bay area. That trip is special to us.

What is the best quality of your partner?
M: Her compassion and caring for others, her quirky sense of humor, and the fact that she makes magic happen with her passion for her goals!
Z: His down-to-earth and easy-going nature. He can stop everything and simply live in the moment, which still hasn’t ceased to amaze me. It could literally be raining cats and dogs, and he will sip his coffee in peace. What barks, who meows?

What has been your favorite project to work on together?
M & Z: Creating together. Whatever it may be—whether it’s new plans at Shortwave and Boone Olive Oil Co., or brainstorming program ideas for Fit X Femme. We each think so differently that it always makes for interesting conversation at the least or for awesome projects when all the pieces fit together.

What is the key to a lasting and healthy relationship?
M: Always appreciating each other and giving one another the space to be ourselves.
Z: Love and respect, letting some things go but not everything, and holding some things close while keeping some others at a distance—who really knows! We’re both just trying and allowing one another to shine in every spectrum of light.