Wail Alselwi, also known as “Island Ock,” runs Zack’s Finest Deli & Grocery in Staten Island, New York, where he has a heartwarming tradition of rewarding neighborhood students for their hard work. One day, Madison, a 17-year-old high school junior with dreams of becoming a professional basketball player, proudly shows off her perfect report card to Alselwi. The young girl is a regular at the bodega, often stopping by to share her achievements with the kind-hearted manager.
Alselwi, with his warm smile and encouraging demeanor, congratulates Madison on her stellar grades. He hands her $100 and lets her choose snacks from the store as a reward for her dedication. This act of kindness is not new for Alselwi, who frequently showcases students like Madison on his TikTok account, celebrating their academic accomplishments. Students who achieve between 80-90% receive items of their choice from the store, while those scoring between 70-80% can take home $10 worth of goods. Even students who show improvement in their grades or demonstrate exceptional attendance are acknowledged and rewarded by Alselwi.
The initiative started in 2023 when Alselwi aimed to inspire a neighborhood kid, Zamier Davies, to excel academically. The manager promised Davies a free item from the store if he improved his grades, motivating the young boy to work hard and eventually make the honor roll. Davies’ success story gained widespread attention, with Alselwi’s video going viral and attracting students from various locations to Zack’s Finest Deli & Grocery. The heartwarming impact of Alselwi’s gesture extends beyond the bodega, resonating with students and their families who appreciate the recognition and support.
Alselwi’s genuine care for the community is evident in his interactions with the students, reflecting his own longing for his children back in Yemen. Despite the distance from his family, Alselwi finds joy in celebrating the achievements of young individuals and receiving positive feedback on social media. The overwhelming response to his initiative led to a fundraising campaign organized by his brother, raising nearly $50,000 to support Alselwi’s efforts. The manager emphasizes the importance of acknowledging hard work and expressing genuine care for others, highlighting the significance of celebrating the accomplishments of young individuals in the community.
