Today we’d like to introduce you to Riz Khan.
Hi Riz, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
From a young age, as a single mother, I learned the power of resilience. I worked tirelessly while carrying a dream larger than circumstance—the dream of ownership, independence, and legacy. Although I spent years working for many companies, I always believed that building something of my own was not just an American dream, but a declaration of strength for women who choose to lead, create, and rise. One of my greatest gifts is vision. I see the possibility where others seeing decay. I see stories waiting to be honored, spaces waiting to be reborn. Over the years, I purchased and renovated several older homes, breathing new life into forgotten places. Yet for nearly two decades, one home quietly called me. Hidden behind commercial buildings and far from the road, I would catch glimpses of it while traveling to visit my parents. Each time, I found myself asking, “This house is beautiful”, “Where is this house?” I searched local streets again and again, but it remained elusive—until late 2018, when I finally saw a For Sale sign. I called my realtor immediately and asked her to submit an offer without delay. Soon after, I became the proud owner of what is now known as The Historic Model Farm. Drawn to its deep history and timeless beauty, I envisioned transforming the property into more than a restored home. I saw a gathering place—a living symbol of perseverance, wellness, education, and shared experience. A space where stories are preserved and future generations, especially women, can see what is possible when courage meets commitment. The restoration was challenging. The roof had large openings, allowing water to pour into the upper levels of the home. I began from the top and worked my way down, restoring each level with intention and care. On the first floor, I discovered a hidden beehive above a corner ceiling, honey dripping steadily below. While removal quotes were high, a neighbor familiar with the home helped arrange for the Queen Bee to be safely relocated to West Virginia. With the help of local beekeepers, she was given a new home. Today, that room stands as a quiet memorial—an unexpected reminder of leadership, community, and the power of nurturing what matters. Then came COVID-19. Like so many, I experienced profound loss—friends, family, and moments that can never be replaced. Still, I remained steadfast. This restoration became my act of hope, my way of honoring life, and my promise to the future. My dream is for every guest who enters The Historic Model Farm to feel inspired—to learn the history of our state, to connect deeply, and to leave reminded that legacy is built through perseverance, vision, and heart. This home stands as proof that women can preserve history, lead restoration, and create spaces that heal and empower. Today, The Historic Model Farm has been reintroduced to the community for the first time in generations. Nestled on two peaceful acres, its welcoming red door symbolizes love, courage, and joy, while its light blue exterior stands proudly—a beacon of history, empowerment, and legacy brought back to life by a woman who refused to give up on a dream.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The struggles were real
As the years passed, the world changed. COVID-19 touched me deeply, and I lost many friends and family members during that time. Still, I remained committed to restoring this home. My dream has always been for guests to visit, learn about the history of our state, and leave with a renewed appreciation for the craftsmanship and story behind this remarkable 1867 landmark.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Let me begin by sharing that I am, at my core, an artist. In my younger years, I specialized in oil painting and was honored to receive several awards while living in California. Art has always shaped the way I see the world—it trained my eye to recognize beauty, depth, and potential, even in unexpected places.
After relocating to North Carolina in 1999, my professional journey expanded across multiple industries, including hospitality, information technology, insurance, healthcare, nonprofit work, leadership development, and linguistics. Each chapter strengthened my adaptability and deepened my understanding of people, systems, and service.
One of the accomplishments I am most proud of is my ability to speak multiple languages. Being multilingual has allowed me to connect across cultures, gain new perspectives, and truly understand how others experience the world. It has fostered empathy, communication, and trust—gifts I credit to my father, who instilled in me the importance of language and cultural awareness.
What truly sets me apart is my strength of will and my ability to manage multiple projects with focus and intention. I am known for my vision, resilience, and the lasting impression I leave on people. Those who work with me often describe me as inspiring and hardworking—someone who leads with purpose, creativity, and heart.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
People can work with and support me in many meaningful ways. Whether you’re an artist, educator, wellness practitioner, historian, entrepreneur, or community leader, collaboration is always welcome. Support can come through hosting or leading events, partnering with educational or wellness experiences, contributing to preservation efforts, or simply sharing the story of The Historic Model Farm. Every connection helps keep history alive while creating space for growth, healing, and legacy.
My contact information is
Riz Khan-336-687-5380
Website-thehistoricmodelfarm.org
Email- thehistoricmodelfarm@gmail.com
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thehistoricmodelfarm.org
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thehistoricmodelfarm/
