From Humble Beginnings to Agricultural Innovation: The Gregory Gerami Journey

BY CLAY MOORE

On the forefront of the Texas industrial hemp industry stands the youngest African American producer and seed seller in the state, Gregory Gerami. This inspiring figure, who overcame a myriad of challenges to become the founder of Batterson Farms Corp., is championing the cause of sustainable farming and biodegradable hemp products in the Lone Star State.

Born in 1993 into difficult circumstances, Gerami’s life began with the severe trials of opiate addiction and Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, leading to a diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy, seizure disorder, and severe ADHD. With the fear of blindness and deafness looming, he entered foster care at just ten days old. Fortunately, he found a loving home with his foster mother, who legally adopted him when he was two and a half years old. Armed with hearing aids, an abundance of love, and the expertise of medical professionals, he successfully combatted these afflictions, even achieving superior hearing capabilities.

An unexpected opportunity presented itself in the form of mentoring from the former Mayor of Arlington, Cluck, who instilled in Gerami the principles of civic duty. Concurrently, a local banker from

Merrill Lynch took Gerami under his wing, teaching him about investing and the importance of financial responsibility.

Capitalizing on these learnings, Gerami transformed his small-scale lawn care business into a successful property