Arriving in Ecuador from Lebanon at the beginning of the last century, the patriarch of the family, Mema, was given the name Emilio Isaias, and the prophetic name would be an appropriate appellation.

The family began in a small town called Catarama and began building their business, while adhering to their Christian faith and spirit which meant charity and aid.

The family enjoyed a rapid ascent in their fortunes and opened a bank, Filanbanco, which became the largest in Ecuador. However, with success comes enemies, and with the Ecuadorian financial crisis at the end of the last century, the family were targeted by a failing and flagging president who needed their assets.