“Working In The City” is The San Diego Sun’s feature Q&A series with downtown San Diego business operators. It’s a way to get to know the city by meeting the people who work here. This is the 33rd in an ongoing series.
Company name: IMAAAQKM Consultant, Sales & Security Services
What do you do: I operate a sidewalk snack vending business across the street from Petco Park at the corner of Tony Gwynn Drive (Seventh Avenue) and K Street. This intersection is located on the northwest side of the stadium, right next to the Western Metal Supply Co. Building. I serve Padres fans before and after games, selling packaged snacks, peanuts, sunflower seeds, Cracker Jacks, box candies, bottled water and other ballpark favorites.
I am: Imhotep Mustaqeem. I’m a longtime downtown sidewalk vendor, husband, father, and proud member of the San Diego community. I’ve spent years building relationships with Padres fans and visitors from all over the country, and world, who pass through downtown San Diego.
How long have you worked downtown: Since 2009.
What’s happened with the police: After having my inventory impounded, things have improved following court rulings. My goal has never been conflict. I simply want the opportunity to work honestly, support my family, and continue serving the fans and community I’ve grown to care deeply about over the years.
The legal case: Still ongoing. The courts issued rulings that allow me to continue working while the remaining legal issues move forward. I’m thankful for the opportunity to once again be downtown serving Padres fans.
The downtown sidewalk vending scene: I think the situation is more nuanced than people realize. There should absolutely be health, safety and cleanliness standards. But there are also many hardworking vendors trying to survive and provide for their families. I believe the key is fair, balanced and consistent enforcement that respects both public order and people’s livelihoods.
Worst aspects of working downtown: The uncertainty can be difficult. When your ability to work and provide for your family feels unstable, that takes an emotional toll. Downtown can also be physically exhausting with long hours, heavy crowds and constant movement.
Best aspect of working downtown: Without question, the people. Over the years I’ve built genuine relationships with Padres fans, downtown workers, tourists, security staff and local residents. Some customers have supported me for well over a decade. That human connection means everything to me.
Regular customers: One of the most rewarding parts of this work is seeing familiar faces season after season. I’ve had customers tell me, “We look for you every time we come to a game.” I’ve literally watched children grow up coming to Padres games with their parents, and later returning as adults who still remember me.
Most surprising part of working downtown: How much of a true community downtown can become when you work there long enough. People often think of downtown as busy and impersonal, but over time you begin recognizing faces, stories and lives.
Funniest downtown work memory: Listening to passionate Padres fans confidently predict a World Series championship in April every single year. Baseball optimism downtown is undefeated.
Scariest downtown work memory: Having my property confiscated and suddenly feeling uncertain about my future and my ability to support my family. That was one of the hardest periods of my life professionally and emotionally.
Padres games: The games bring life, energy, tourism, and opportunity to downtown San Diego. Many businesses — large and small — benefit from that excitement and foot traffic.
Homelessness: It’s one of the biggest challenges facing downtown San Diego. I think it requires compassion, accountability, mental health resources, treatment options, and long-term solutions. Many people are struggling and need real help.
How can the city be more business friendly: By making rules clear, applying them fairly and consistently, and recognizing that small independent operators are also part of the economic and cultural fabric of downtown San Diego.
Favorite downtown business that isn’t yours: Petco Park itself helped transform downtown San Diego into one of the most vibrant areas in the city. I also appreciate the many local restaurants and small businesses that give downtown its personality and energy.
Best advice for running a downtown SD business: Respect people, stay consistent and build relationships. In downtown San Diego, your reputation and the way you treat people matters just as much as the product you sell. SDSun
