With a story marked by hard work, resilience and love for his community, Colombian businessman Rafael Camargo, born and raised in Barranquilla, celebrated the opening of his first Chick-Fil-A restaurant in the heart of Brooklyn.
Located at 31 Smith St., Chick-Fil-A Smith & Livingston opened its doors on Thursday, July 24, with a special offer for those who presented themselves at the restaurant with cow attire: they were able to enjoy a free main course as part of a fun tradition driven by the chain in its new inaugurations.
For Camargo, this project was much more than a business goal. “As a Colombian, opening a Chick-Fil-A restaurant in Brooklyn is an immense pride and a dream come true. It represents the opportunity to share not only the culture of service that characterizes Chick-Fil-A, but also my Latin roots, my commitment to the community and my desire to generate a positive impact.”
Camargo led this new restaurant with a clear vision: generate a transformative impact on the local community. In addition to creating approximately 75 jobs, the restaurant offered competitive wages, educational benefits and tools that foster the professional growth of its team. “I want my restaurant to be a place where employees feel valued, supported and with the necessary tools to succeed.”
The opening also served as a platform to support those who need it most. Chick-Fil-A, Inc. donated $ 25,000 to Feeding America in honor of this inauguration, an investment that directly supported the hunger aid efforts in the New York metropolitan area. In addition, the restaurant began to participate in the Shared Table® program, which donates surplus foods to local non -profit organizations.
Camargo began his way with Chick-Fil-A as a frequent client. A conversation with a local owner-operator inspired him to learn more about the brand’s values and their community impact. In 2018, he received a company scholarship that helped him complete his career in international business. “I saw the possibility not only to grow professionally, but also to generate a positive impact.”
Opening a business in New York was not exempt from challenges, but Camargo faced them with determination. “Despite so many challenges to face to open a business in NY, I could overcome them as they arose. Since I knew I had the possibility of opening the first Chick-Fil-A in Downtown Brooklyn it was a dream come true.”
His approach as a leader also reflected his roots. “My culture has instilled in me a solid work ethics and a strong commitment to building significant relationships with those around me.” Inspired by his Colombian heritage, Rafael struggled every day to create an environment where both employees and clients were received.
The link between family and community was central in his life. One of his favorite memories was Chick-Fil-A Breakfast with his son Samuel, 4, every Saturday morning. “He reminded me of how food, and the moments we share around it, can really unite people.”
Camargo also expressed interest in staying active in Brooklyn with community activities, especially during thanksgiving and Christmas festivities, and said he was already looking for alliances with local organizations to distribute food.
To other Latin parents who dream of undertaking in the United States, they left a clear message: “I would tell them that they never stop pursuing their dreams. (…) Opportunities exist, and with dedication, you can create a future that reflects your values and your vision.”
