Empowering Communities Through Leadership and Innovation: A Conversation with Sameer Lalani of Atlanta

Sameer Lalani is the CEO and Founder of Cheque Express, the largest money services company in Georgia, and Cheque Reliance, a financial technology company focused on enhancing efficiency in the financial services sector. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Sameer has dedicated his career to addressing the gaps in traditional banking systems, providing accessible financial tools to underserved communities, and fostering inclusive hiring practices. Born in Mumbai, India, and having moved to the United States as a teenager, Sameer’s immigrant experience has deeply shaped his approach to leadership and business. Beyond his entrepreneurial success, he is a passionate mentor, philanthropist, and advocate for empowering individuals through opportunity and economic mobility.

What inspired you to start Cheque Express, and how has your journey shaped its mission?

Growing up as an immigrant in the U.S., I witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by underserved communities, especially when it came to accessing financial services. My parents were entrepreneurs, and their resilience inspired me to build something meaningful. Cheque Express was born out of a desire to address the gaps in traditional banking systems—providing essential financial tools to those who often feel excluded. Whether it’s helping someone cash a paycheck or send money to loved ones abroad, I wanted to create a business that not only serves but uplifts people. This mission continues to guide us as we expand our reach and impact.

What role does your immigrant background play in your approach to business?

My immigrant background is central to how I view business and leadership. Moving from Mumbai to the U.S. at 13 was a transformative experience. It taught me resilience, adaptability, and the value of community. Those lessons are reflected in my approach to running Cheque Express. I understand the barriers that immigrants and marginalized individuals face, which is why we prioritize hiring legal newcomers. It’s not just about running a business—it’s about using my own journey to help others navigate theirs.

Why is inclusive hiring such a key part of your business philosophy?

Inclusive hiring isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a smart business decision. When we hire individuals with diverse backgrounds, we gain unique perspectives that drive innovation and strengthen our team. For example, many of our employees are legal immigrants or single mothers who bring incredible resilience and dedication to their roles. By giving them opportunities, we’re not just creating jobs; we’re empowering families and strengthening communities. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how their success creates a ripple effect, benefiting everyone around them.

What challenges do you see in traditional banking, and how does Cheque Express address them?

Traditional banking often falls short for underserved communities. Limited branch hours, high fees, and stringent requirements can make basic financial services inaccessible for many people. At Cheque Express, we eliminate those barriers by offering practical, affordable solutions. Our services are designed to meet people where they are, whether it’s cashing checks without a bank account or facilitating global money transfers. We prioritize accessibility and efficiency because we understand that financial stability should not be a privilege—it’s a necessity.

How do you balance innovation with maintaining a personal connection in your business?

While we incorporate financial technology through Cheque Reliance to improve efficiency, the human connection remains at the heart of everything we do. Technology is a tool—it helps us streamline operations and expand our reach—but it doesn’t replace the personal touch. At Cheque Express, we focus on building trust with our customers and ensuring that their needs are met with empathy and care. Whether it’s offering multilingual support or tailoring services to unique circumstances, we make sure our customers feel valued.

What does mentorship mean to you, and how do you incorporate it into your work?

Mentorship is one of the most fulfilling aspects of what I do. It’s a way to give back and invest in the next generation of leaders. I’ve been fortunate to have mentors guide me throughout my journey, and I strive to do the same for others. At Cheque Express, we emphasize mentorship within our team, pairing new hires with experienced colleagues to help them grow. Outside the workplace, I mentor young entrepreneurs, sharing lessons from my own experiences to help them navigate challenges and refine their goals. Mentorship is about more than advice—it’s about inspiring confidence and unlocking potential.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to aspiring entrepreneurs?

Embrace failure as part of the journey. When I started Cheque Express, I made mistakes—especially when it came to navigating regulatory complexities. But those setbacks taught me valuable lessons and pushed me to build a stronger foundation. Surround yourself with people who challenge and support you, and never stop learning. Success isn’t about avoiding failure; it’s about how you adapt and grow from it.

What are you most proud of in your career so far?

I’m most proud of the impact Cheque Express has had on the lives of our employees and customers. Seeing single mothers gain financial independence or newcomers to the U.S. find their footing through meaningful work—it’s incredibly humbling. On the customer side, knowing that we’ve made financial tools accessible to those who need them most is deeply rewarding. It’s not just about building a business; it’s about building a legacy that makes a difference.

What’s next for Cheque Express and your broader vision?

The future is about growth and impact. In 2025, we’re expanding into Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina, with the goal of becoming a nationwide leader in money services. Beyond geographic expansion, I’m focused on deepening our community connections, enhancing our fintech capabilities, and continuing to foster economic mobility for underserved communities. My vision is to create a company that doesn’t just adapt to change but drives it—helping individuals and families build brighter futures along the way.

Final Thoughts

Leadership and entrepreneurship are about more than profit—they’re about purpose. At Cheque Express, we’re committed to breaking barriers, creating opportunities, and building stronger communities. Whether through inclusive hiring, innovative solutions, or mentorship, my goal is to leave a lasting impact that goes beyond the bottom line. It’s a privilege to lead this journey, and I’m excited for what lies ahead.

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