First and Last Name: Ali Faris Helleberg
Hometown: Fond du Lac (Class of 2007!)
What Brought you to Fond du Lac: I was born and raised in FDL! I moved away for college and was away for some time after that. I moved back in 2016 with my now-husband to start working more directly in my family’s businesses.
Place of Employment and Position: United Manufacturers & Faris Gourmet Popcorn; President
What do you enjoy the most about your career? What I enjoy most about my career is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in our community while continuing to learn, grow and build relationships. I enjoy being able to continue to grow what my parents started over 40 years ago, and to do so alongside my sister.
What words of wisdom would you share with other YP’s in relation to career building? Be open to opportunities, be kind to everyone, and stay true to yourself. Growth can come in the most unexpected ways, and may even come from stepping outside of your comfort zone. Be sure to always show up with a positive, kind attitude and a strong work ethic. Spreading kindness goes a long way, and will eventually come back to you ten-fold.
Who or what inspires and motivates you to be your best? I get inspiration and motivation from my dad and my daughters. I am grateful to work alongside my dad and have him as a mentor for years. He led with kindness, dedication and integrity. He invested in others, gave back to our community, and showed that success is not just about personal achievement but also about how you help others along the way. My daughters inspire me every day to work hard, to lead by example, and to keep striving to be the best version of myself. I work hard to show them that anything is possible through dedication and determination.
What are 3 Characteristics and/or Strengths that make you who you are? Honest, hardworking, and compassionate.
What is your favorite thing to do in your free time/a hobby you enjoy? I enjoy spending quality time with my family; planning “old lady” activities with friends; and making time for the things that help me refocus and center myself, like reading, being outdoors with my dog, doing yoga, knitting, and listening to my favorite true crime podcasts!
Name something you enjoy doing in the Greater Fond du Lac Area that others should check out: When I’m not working, I enjoy checking out local events and supporting other local businesses! Most of my free-time is spent with my family. We love going to the farmer’s market in summer, leisurely browsing the FDL Public Library, and going to the different parks. In winter, one of our favorite activities is driving through Lakeside Park and seeing the lights and light show.
What is your favorite part about being in YPF and how has it benefited you? I was very involved in YPF when I moved back to Fond du Lac. It was a great way to meet new people and expand my professional network. I had to take a step back once I had kids! YPF is a great way to surround yourself with others who are invested in both personal growth and the future of this area.
How do you engage in our community? I stay engaged in our community by supporting local organizations and attending community events. I volunteer with different non-profit organizations and am actively involved with my kids’ school. Through our businesses, it is part of our mission to continuously give back, with a focus on hunger, education and youth enrichment.
Share a lesson you have learned or a nugget of advice with other YP’s: How you treat people, your willingness to learn, and how consistently you show up can open more doors than you realize.
What do you love about the Greater Fond du Lac Area today and what is your hope for its future in the years to come? I love the sense of pride and connection people have here. Fond du Lac is a very unique place – it’s a good-sized city with a small-town feel. My hope is that the area continues to grow and create new opportunities while keeping the strong community spirit that makes it feel like home.
