Sameer Lalani is a dynamic entrepreneur and the CEO of Cheque Express, Georgia’s largest money services company, and Cheque Reliance, a financial technology initiative focused on efficiency and accessibility.
Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Sameer 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 of creating opportunities for marginalized communities. Beyond his business achievements, he is an advocate for mentorship, a champion of inclusive hiring practices, and a passionate supporter of initiatives that uplift families and empower individuals.
What inspired your focus on inclusive hiring, and how does it impact your business?
Inclusive hiring has always been personal for me. As an immigrant, I understand how difficult it can be to start fresh in a new country, and I wanted to create opportunities for others facing similar challenges. At Cheque Express, we prioritize hiring single mothers and legal immigrants. This not only benefits the individuals but also strengthens our company. Diverse perspectives bring fresh ideas, and employees who feel valued are more committed to our mission. It’s a win-win that proves business can drive social change.
How does your immigrant background influence your leadership style?
My journey from Mumbai to Atlanta taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of community. These values shape how 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—showing that with hard work and integrity, anything is possible. My background helps me connect with my employees and customers on a personal level, especially those who have faced similar struggles.
What challenges do underserved communities face in accessing financial services, and how does Cheque Express address them?
Traditional banking systems often overlook underserved communities. High fees, inconvenient branch hours, and stringent requirements make it difficult for many people to access basic financial services. At Cheque Express, we provide practical alternatives like check cashing and global money transfers. These services are designed to meet the needs of low-income earners, 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 business?
Mentorship is one of the most fulfilling parts of my journey. I’ve had incredible mentors who guided me, and I’m passionate about paying it forward. Within Cheque Express, mentorship is part of our culture—we pair new employees with experienced team members to help them succeed. Outside the workplace, I mentor young entrepreneurs, sharing lessons from my own challenges and successes. Mentorship isn’t just about advice; it’s about inspiring confidence and showing people what they’re capable of achieving.
How does Cheque Express incorporate technology without losing its personal touch?
Technology is an essential tool for efficiency, but it’s not a substitute for human connection. At Cheque Express, we use fintech through Cheque Reliance to streamline processes and enhance accessibility, but we always keep people at the center of what we do. Whether it’s offering multilingual support or tailoring services to unique community needs, we focus on creating a personal and empathetic experience for our customers. Innovation should serve people, not overshadow them.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as an entrepreneur?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that failure is not the opposite of success—it’s a stepping stone. Early in my career, I made mistakes, especially around navigating 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 keep growing and innovating?
What motivates me most is the impact we can make. Every time I hear about an employee thriving or a customer achieving financial stability because of our services, it fuels my drive to do more. I’m also inspired by the potential to expand Cheque Express and bring our mission to new communities. Knowing that our work makes a tangible difference keeps me focused and excited for the future.
How do you balance business growth with community impact?
For me, they go hand in hand. A successful business should be a force for good. At Cheque Express, we prioritize both profitability and purpose by hiring inclusively, serving underserved communities, and giving back through mentorship and philanthropy. Our expansion plans are not just about reaching more markets—they’re about extending our impact and creating opportunities for even more individuals and families.
What are your plans for the future of Cheque 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 money services. But it’s not just about growth—it’s about ensuring that our services remain accessible, reliable, and impactful. As part of this vision, we’re excited to launch a new app in the coming year, which will integrate digital wallet functionality to make transactions even more seamless and convenient for our customers. We’re exploring innovative ways to leverage technology while staying true to our mission of serving people first. The future is exciting, and I’m committed to making sure Cheque Express continues to be a force for positive change.
What do you hope your legacy will be?
I hope my legacy will be one of empowerment and inclusion. Whether it’s through providing jobs, mentoring young entrepreneurs, or offering financial services that uplift communities, I want to leave behind a company and a philosophy that prioritizes people. Success, for me, isn’t measured by profit alone—it’s measured by the lives we’ve touched and the opportunities we’ve created. If I can inspire others to lead with purpose and give back, that’s a legacy I’ll be proud of.
Final Thoughts
Sameer Lalani’s journey from an immigrant teenager to a pioneering entrepreneur is a testament to the power of resilience, inclusion, and purpose-driven leadership. Through his work at Cheque Express and beyond, he continues to break barriers, empower communities, and inspire others to make a difference. As Sameer puts it, “When you invest in people, you’re not just building a business—you’re building a better future for everyone.”
