This month, we are proud to spotlight a Katy dad who’s combining passion, creativity, and purpose in a way that inspires others. Meet Ben Hayman, devoted husband, proud father, and owner of Mako Awards, a business built from the heart that celebrates hard work, achievement, and conservation.
 |
Meet Ben
Ben was born in Houston and grew up in Cypress, Texas. After high school, he attended the University of Houston (Go Coogs!) where he met his amazing wife. The couple moved to Katy in 2022 and, in January of 2024, welcomed their daughter Violet into the world.
Now that Violet is entering her toddler era, the Hayman family’s roots in the Katy community continue to grow deeper every day. “It’s been such a joy watching her learn and grow,” Ben shares. “She’s the heart of everything we do.”
 |
🦈 The Inspiration Behind Mako Awards
The idea for Mako Awards came from a combination of Ben’s professional experience and personal passions.
Before launching his business, Ben spent much of his career in management, often leading teams of more than 200 people.
“It was really important to me that my team members knew they were valued and appreciated,” he says. “I never wanted anyone to feel like just a number.”
Outside of work, Ben volunteered as one of the main organizers for the Air Hockey World Championships. His role included designing awards and collaborating with vendors on every detail—from first-place trophies to dedication plaques. “That’s when it hit me,” he says. “I love recognizing people for their hard work and celebrating their achievements.”
The following year, Ben had a full-circle moment when he supplied all the awards himself for the championship. That experience cemented his idea for Mako Awards.
 |
And the name? It’s inspired by his lifelong fascination with sharks and the ocean. “I wanted to create a business that not only celebrated people’s accomplishments but also helped protect something I care deeply about,” Ben explains. A portion of Mako Awards’ proceeds goes directly to shark and ocean conservation, a cause that reflects his brand’s values.
🏆 A Day in the Life
A typical day in the Hayman household is what Ben calls “beautiful chaos.” It begins with helping Violet get ready for preschool (ponytails and all), then balancing a full day of work before heading to his workshop at night.
“Once my daughter is asleep, that’s when I dive into production mode,” Ben says with a laugh. “It’s a full schedule, but it’s worth every minute.”
 |
⚖️ Finding Balance
Like many parents who run their own business, balance doesn’t always come easy. “The hardest part is wanting to be with my family all the time while also needing to meet deadlines,” he says. “I don’t have it all figured out, but if there’s laughter in the house, hugs at the end of the day, and progress in the shop, I know I’m doing something right.”
Ben’s advice for other dads dreaming of starting a business is heartfelt and practical:
“Surround yourself with people who love and support you. Lean on them for encouragement and seek out mentors who’ve been there before. Relationships—in life and business—will guide you in the right direction.”
 |
 | 🦈 Business Spotlight: Mako Awards✨ Business Name: Mako Awards 🌐 Website:
www.makoawards.com |
