Canadian Immigrant Awards names Jack Rabba as Entrepreneur of the Year
Congratulations to Jack Rabba, founder of Rabba Fine Foods, who was named 2021 Entrepreneur of the Year by Canadian Immigrant Magazine, as well as one of this year's Top 25 Canadians.
Now in its 13th year, the awards program recognizes inspirational immigrants who have made a positive impact in their communities, including success in business.
“I am deeply honoured to be recognized alongside so many Canadians who are working tirelessly to make our country a better place,” Rabba said in a release. “We are blessed to play a role in strengthening the neighbourhoods and communities in which we live. We take our responsibility to heart – and I’m not alone in embracing this task. I wish to extend my congratulations and thanks to all of the people at Rabba Fine Foods and all its associated wholesale, food and real estate businesses.”
The company shared this story about Rabba's journey to success: "Rabba was born in the Middle East into desperately impoverished conditions. During his youth, Rabba’s father was bedridden and, at age 13, he had to take any job he could find in restaurants and hotels to support his parents and siblings. These jobs afforded him an opportunity to serve visitors from many nations, but it was the compassion and kindness of Canadians that sparked in him an undying love for the country even before his arrival. Rabba immigrated in 1966 with only the promise of a clerical job at a hotel, clothes on his back and his Canadian aspirations. Unwilling to take this opportunity for granted, he spent every moment focused on building a better life. He and his wife Ingrid were married at Old City Hall while they were both on their lunch break and soon afterwards he got a job as a convenience store manager. Working long hours, Rabba was able to put a down-payment on a small convenience store in the heart of Toronto. He helped his parents and young siblings to immigrate a few years later and continued to carry his immigrant family on his shoulders while building a successful neighbourhood business.
"As his business grew, Rabba realized Torontonians were looking for more variety, so he expanded the store. Customers liked the new selection and so the small store became multiple neighbourhood markets. In 1985, Rabba renamed the chain and launched Rabba Fine Foods. Today, there are 35 locations across Ontario.
"Rabba has created countless jobs and he continues to provide opportunities for, to mentor, and support new Canadians. Through his companies and the Rabba Roots Community Program, Rabba has been a proud contributor to charitable and community organizations over the years.?
Today, his family helps run the business and they continue to expand across the city, last year announcing an exciting foodservice partnership.
Read: Rabba Fine Foods elevates convenience with Paramount partnership
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau shared this message for the Top 25 winners. To see the full list of winners, visit canadianimmigrant.ca .
